Belgium 1871 5 francs
This specimen was lot 897 in Jean Elsen sale 138 (Brussels, September 2018), where it sold for €120 (about US$167 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Léopold II (1865-1909), AR 5 francs, 1871. Petits coups sur la tranche. presque Fleur de Coin. (kingdom of Belgium Leopold II, 1865-1909, silver five francs of 1871. Small rim nicks, about Uncirculated.)"
This type was struck 1865-78 in large numbers and is the commonest silver coin from Belgium of the reign. The first two years, 1865 and 1866 are very rare and priced accordingly. Leopold II was hailed at the beginning of his reign as an enlightened, constitutional monarch, and later vilified for his activities in the Congo Free State.
Recorded mintage: 4,783,000.
Specification: 25 g, 0.900 fine silver, .723 troy oz ASW, lettered edge.
Catalog reference: Dupriez 1131, KM 24, Dav-53.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1801-1900, 9th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- Davenport, John S., European Crowns and Talers, Since 1800, 2nd Ed., London: Spink & Son, 1964
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, et al., Vente Publique 138, Collection A. BLONDEL, Collection M. HENDRICKX, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils, S.A., 2018.
Link to:
- 1867 10 francs
- 1870 5 francs
- 1871 20 francs
- 1872 5 francs
- Coins and currency dated 1871
- return to coins of Belgium