Belgium 1881 franc
This specimen was lot 834 in Jean Elsen sale 126 (Brussels, September 2015), where it sold for €120 (about US$160 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Léopold II (1865-1909), AR 1 franc, 1881. Très rare Beau à Très Beau. (kingdom of Belgium, Leopold II (1865-1909), silver franc of 1881. Very rare, fine to very fine.)"
This type was struck for Belgium in 1866-69, 1881 and 1886 along with a similar type with Dutch legends issued 1886-87. This type is remarkably scarce in nice condition despite its large mintage tho worn specimens are plentiful. Overdates 1881/61 and 1881/67 are recorded.
Recorded mintage: 116,000 (rare date).
Specification: 5 g, .835 silver, .134 troy oz ASW.
Catalog reference: Dupriez 1226, KM-28.1.
- 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 126, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils, S.A., 2015.
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