Belgium 1945 5 frank
This specimen was lot 982 in Jean Elsen sale 108 (Brussels, March 2011) where it sold for 80 euros (about US$131.41 including buyer's fee). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Régence du prince Charles (1944-1950), zinc 5 frank, 1945 NL, Rare. Petite tache. Superbe (Kingdom of Belgium, regency of prince Charles (1944-50), zinc five francs of 1945. Rare, small rim nick, extremely fine.)"
This type was issued 1941-47 during and immediately after the Nazi occupation. King Leopold remained in Belgium during the war (the crown prince fled to England) and his activities led to accusations of collaboration, whereupon he abdicated in 1950. The similar type with French legends (KM 129) is common but this date is rare.
Reported Mintage: 3,200,000.
Specification: 5.9 g, zinc, 24.8 mm diameter.
Catalog reference: Dupriez, 2719, KM 130.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, Vente Publique 108, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils, S.A., 2011.
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