Obverse. Photo © The Coinhouse Auctions
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium
  • 5 Francs 1999, Congo, Democratic Republic, Royal Families Of Europe, Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium
Description

Europe has 12 monarchies, including the unique systems of the Vatican and Andorra. Due to historical intermarriage, all of Europe’s reigning monarchs are related. Since WWII, all hereditary European monarchs have descended from a single common ancestor: John William Friso, Prince of Orange, who died in 1711.

Two German noble families, the Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburgs and the Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, are particularly prominent in European royal bloodlines. The British royal family, originally the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, changed its name to Windsor in 1917 when King George V adopted a more British-sounding name to counter anti-German sentiment during WWI.

Obverse

Depicts the official emblem of the Laurent Kabila regime: a gilded snarling lion's head, representing strength and authority, set within a circle. The country’s name is inscribed in French, along with the date. Above, the bank's legend is displayed, and below it is the denomination, flanked by two stars on each side.

Kabila’s regime, which began in 1997 after he overthrew Mobutu Sese Seko, was characterized by efforts to rebuild the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire) after decades of dictatorship. His government sought to restore national sovereignty, but faced internal conflict and external pressures, particularly during the Second Congo War.

★ BANQUE CENTRALE ★
REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE
19 99
DU CONGO
★ 5 FRANCS ★

Reverse

Depicts a multicolored Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium facing left, Belgian Royal Crown left, emblem of Belgium in the background enclosed by the inscription above, her name, birth and death dates below surrounded by the title of series in French.

Marie Henriette (1836–1902) was the Queen of Belgium, known for her strong personality, musical talent, and dedication to charitable causes. Born an Austrian archduchess, she married Leopold II of Belgium in 1853, bringing with her a lively interest in the arts and a reputation as a skilled equestrian, which earned her the nickname “The Rose of Brabant.” While her marriage to Leopold was often strained due to his political ambitions and personal scandals, Marie Henriette carved out a respected role for herself within Belgium. She focused on promoting Belgian cultural life, supporting the military, and aiding causes related to health and poverty. She was especially loved in the region of Spa, where she spent her later years and became known for her approachable and compassionate nature, even earning her the affectionate title “Queen of the Poor.”

MAISONS ROYALES D'EUROPE DES SIECLES DERNIERS
LA REINE DES BELGES
MARIA-HENDRIKA 1836-1902

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Nickel Plated Brass
Weight 24.3 g
Diameter 38.61 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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