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 of the issue is placed below all within a beaded circle.

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.

Depicts a portrait of Pope Benedict XVI facing blessing the crowd, wearing a cassock, and mitre, topped with a breaded cross, Cologne Cathedral in the background, H.H name above with the date of issue and the city name alongside the rim above.

Pope Benedict XVI (1927-2022), born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger, served as the head of the Catholic Church from 2005 until his surprising resignation in 2013, the first papal resignation in nearly 600 years. A German theologian and scholar, Benedict was known for his intellectual depth, his conservative theological views, and his focus on maintaining church doctrine amidst modern challenges. Before becoming pope, he served as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, where he defended traditional church teachings. His papacy addressed issues such as secularism, relativism, and interfaith dialogue, especially with Islam and Judaism. After resigning, he adopted the title "Pope Emeritus" and lived quietly in the Vatican until his death, dedicating his remaining years to prayer and study.

Cologne Cathedral, known as Kölner Dom in German, is one of the most iconic Gothic structures in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1248, inspired by French Gothic cathedrals, but halted in the mid-16th century, leaving it incomplete for centuries. Building resumed in the 19th century, finally concluding in 1880, based on original medieval plans. Its towering twin spires, reaching 157 meters (515 feet), made it the world’s tallest building upon completion. Located near the Rhine River in Cologne, Germany, the cathedral is renowned for its intricate facade, soaring interior, and stunning stained glass windows, which include both medieval and modern works. A symbol of endurance, Cologne Cathedral has withstood wars and serves as a religious and cultural landmark, housing sacred relics, including the Shrine of the Three Kings.