Belgium 1875 5 francs
This specimen was lot 722 in Jean Elsen list 269 (Brussels, July-August 2014), where it was offered for €75 (about US$102). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Léopold II (1865-1909), AR 5 francs, 1875, Superbe/Fleur de Coin (kingdom of Belgium, Leopold II (1865-1909), silver five francs of 1875, extremely fine to 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. There is another variety with the engraver's name positioned away from the rim (KM 25) which is even rarer. 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: 2,981,000.
Specification: 25 g, 0.900 fine silver, .723 troy oz ASW, lettered edge.
Catalog reference: Dupriez, 1187, 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., Liste 269: Juillet-Septembre 2014, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils, S.A., 2014.
Link to:
- 1874 5 francs
- 1875 20 francs
- 1876 5 francs
- Coins and currency dated 1875
- return to coins of Belgium