Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Francs 2002, KM# 191, Congo, Democratic Republic, Historic Automobiles, Opel Torpedo 1911
  • 10 Francs 2002, KM# 191, Congo, Democratic Republic, Historic Automobiles, Opel Torpedo 1911
Description

The invention of the automobile was a gradual process, marked by key innovations over several centuries that transformed transportation. In the late 18th century, Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot, a French engineer, created a steam-powered vehicle, which is considered one of the earliest attempts at motorized transport. However, it was Karl Benz, a German inventor, who is credited with developing the first true automobile in 1885—a three-wheeled, gas-powered car known as the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. Benz’s invention was soon followed by improvements from pioneers like Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach, who created the first four-wheeled automobile. In the early 20th century, Henry Ford revolutionized the industry with the Model T and the introduction of the assembly line, making cars affordable and accessible to a broad public. This set the foundation for the global automobile industry, transforming how people live, work, and travel.

Obverse

Depicts an official emblem of the Laurent Kabila regime: a mature male lion standing to the left amid the grass, symbolizing strength and authority. Above the lion is the country’s name in French, and the denomination is placed below.

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.

REPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO
10 Francs

Reverse

Depicts Opel Torpedo 1911 Tourer automobile, series title in French above, brand name and dates below.

The Opel Torpedo, introduced in 1911, is an early example of Opel’s automobile manufacturing excellence during the dawn of the 20th century. This model reflects the influence of elegant European design combined with the engineering precision that Opel was known for. The car featured a streamlined body style resembling a torpedo, which was considered innovative and stylish for its time.

Equipped with a robust four-cylinder engine, the Opel Torpedo was built for durability and reliability, making it popular among early automobile enthusiasts. Its craftsmanship, luxury appointments, and technical sophistication embodied the era’s spirit of innovation and Opel's rise as a prominent automobile manufacturer in Europe.

AUTOMOBILES HISTORIQUES
Opel Torpedo
1911
2002

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Cupronickel
Weight 26 g
Diameter 40 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

Related coins

Berliet 1908

Historic Automobiles

Cupronickel, 26 g, ⌀ 40 mm