Obverse. Photo © V.L. Nummus
  • 10 Francs 2006, Congo, Democratic Republic, Athens 2004 Summer Olympics
  • 10 Francs 2006, Congo, Democratic Republic, Athens 2004 Summer Olympics
  • 10 Francs 2006, Congo, Democratic Republic, Athens 2004 Summer Olympics, Attica, Athens, c. 440-404 BC, silver tetradrachm
Description

The 2004 Summer Olympic Games, officially known as the Games of the XXVIII Olympiad and commonly known as Athens 2004, was a premier international multi-sport event held in Athens, Greece, from 13 to 29 August 2004 with the motto Welcome Home. 10,625 athletes competed, some 600 more than expected, accompanied by 5,501 team officials from 201 countries. There were 301 medal events in 28 different sports. Athens 2004 marked the first time since the 1996 Summer Olympics that all countries with a National Olympic Committee were in attendance. 2004 marked the return of the games to the city where they began.

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 an ancient Greek tetradrachm coin, the issue date below.

This ancient Greek coin, a silver tetradrachm from Attica, Athens, dates back to c. 440-404 BC. The reverse features a detailed depiction of an owl standing to the right, with its head facing forward. The owl is accompanied by an olive sprig, which includes two leaves and a berry, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Behind the owl, a crescent moon is depicted, adding to the symbolism of wisdom and protection. The Greek inscription "ΑΘΕ" (Athena) is vertically placed to the right of the owl, all enclosed within an incuse square, giving the design depth and contrast.

AΘE
2006

Edge
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Gold
Fineness 0.999
Weight 0.5 g
Diameter 11 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Medal

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