Belgium 1947 5 francs
This specimen was lot 1441 in Jean Elsen sale 156 (Brussels, September 2023), where it sold for €180 (about US$231 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"BELGIQUE, Royaume, Régence du prince Charles (1944-1950), zinc 5 francs, 1947 FR. Rare. Superbe à Fleur de Coin. (kingdom of Belgium, regency of prince Charles, 1944-50, zinc five francs, French legends. Rare, Extremely Fine - Uncirculated.)"
This type was issued 1941-47 during and immediately after the Nazi occupation. Despite the substantial mintage, this date is very scarce; perhaps they were melted before release. King Leopold remained in Belgium during the war and his activities led to accusations of collaboration, whereupon he abdicated in 1950. A similar type with Flemish legends exists.
Recorded mintage: 3,100,000.
Specification: 5.9 g, zinc, 25 mm diameter.
Catalog reference: KM 129.1, Bogaert 2731.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, et al., Vente Publique 156, Collection de Monnaies de la Principauté de Liège, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils S.A., 2023.
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