Belgium 1850 2-1/2 francs
This specimen was lot 781 in Jean Elsen sale 141 (Brussels, June 2019), where it sold for €950 (about US$1,259 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Léopold Ier (1831-1865), AR 2 1/2 francs, 1850. Grande tête. Rare Fine brisure du coin au droit. Très Beau. (kingdom of Belgium, Leopold I, 1831-65, silver 2½ francs of 1850, large head. Rare, die clash on obverse, 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 except for a 2½ lire from the Papal States.
Recorded mintage: 65,000.
Specification: 12.5 g, 0.900 fine silver.
Catalog reference: KM 12, Dupriez 463.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 9th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, et al., Vente Publique 141, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils, S.A., 2019.
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