Belgium 1848 2-1/2 francs
This specimen was lot 1401 in Jean Elsen sale 143 (Brussels, December 2019), where it sold for €120 (about US$157 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Léopold Ier (1831-1865), AR 2 1/2 francs, 1848. Petite tête. Très Beau. (kingdom of Belgium, Leopold I, 1831-65, silver 2½ francs of 1848, small head. Very Fine.)"
This type was issued 1848-50 and 1865 in "small head" and "large head" varieties. This denomination, equal to a United States half dollar, was not used any where else in Europe. The small head is scarce and the large head is very rare.
Recorded mintage: 559,000 (both varieties).
Specification: 12.5 g, 0.900 fine silver.
Catalog reference: Dupriez 382, KM 11 (small head), 12 (large head).
- Cuhaj, George S., and Thomas Michael, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 7th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2012
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, Vente Publique 143, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils, S.A., 2019.
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