Catalog
| Issuer | Belgium |
|---|---|
| Year | 1832-1856 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 10 Centimes (0.10 BEF) |
| Currency | Franc (1832-2001) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 20 g |
| Diameter | 32 mm |
| Thickness | 3.65 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Joseph-Pierre Braemt |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#2.1, KM#2.2, LA#BFM-31 |
| Obverse description | The royal monogram is surrounded with lettering in French |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
LEOPOLD PREMIER ROI DES BELGES 1847 (Translation: Leopold the First, King of the Belgians) |
| Reverse description | A lion, symbol of Belgium, with a paw over the Belgian Constitution dating 1831. Around is the Belgian motto in French. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
L`UNION FAIT LA FORCE CONSTITUTION BELGE 1831* 10 CENTs BRAEMT F. (Translation: Unity Makes Strength Belgian Constitution Made by Braemt) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1832 - KM# 2.1; Morin 61; Signature with point - 993 308 1832 - KM# 2.1; Morin 61a; Signature without point - 1832 - KM# 2.2; Medal alignment - 1833 - KM# 2.1; Morin 62; Signature with point - 993 652 1833 - KM# 2.1; Morin 62a; Signature without point - 1835 - KM# 2.1; Morin 62b; Signature with point - 1841 - KM# 2.1; Morin 62c; Signature with point; Overdate variety 1841/31 exists - 1847 - KM# 2.1; Morin 63; Signature with point - 134 696 1847 - KM# 2.1; Morin 63a; Signature without point - 1847 - KM# 2.1; Morin 63b; Signature with point; Overdate 1847/37 - 1847 - KM# 2.1; Morin 63c; Signature without point; Overdate 1847/37 - 1848 - KM# 2.1; Morin 64; Signature with point - 410 963 1848 - KM# 2.1; Morin 64a; Signature without point - 1848 - KM# 2.1; Morin 64b; Signature with point; Overdate 1848/37 - 1848 - KM# 2.1; Morin 64c; Signature without point; Overdate 1848/38 - 1849 - KM# 2.1; Morin 65; Signature without point - 365 749 1849 - KM# 2.1; Morin 65a; Signature without point; Overdate 1849/39 - 1855 - KM# 2.1; Morin 66; Signature without point - 28 240 1856 - KM# 2.1; Morin 67; Signature without point - 162 526 |
| Numisquare ID | 3079018950 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 10 Centimes coin of Léopold I is fundamental to early Belgian numismatics, issued from 1832, following the 1830 Revolution and Léopold’s 1831 ascension. It symbolized Belgium's nascent sovereignty and economic independence, replacing foreign currencies. As the first King, Léopold I established a distinct national identity, with this coinage proving vital for daily commerce and solidifying the new state's financial system throughout its extensive mintage period, marking Belgium's formative decades.
Artistry: The coin's design embodies the Neoclassical style common in early 19th-century European minting. The obverse displays a regal bust of Léopold I, facing left, attributed to Joseph-Pierre Braemt, Chief Engraver of the Brussels Mint. His idealized portrait conveys authority. The reverse features "10 CENTIMES" within a meticulously rendered laurel and oak wreath, surmounted by a royal crown, classic symbols reinforcing the new monarchy and national pride with balanced clarity.
Technical/Grading: Critical high-points for assessing strike and wear on Léopold I's portrait include hair details above the ear, the cheekbone, and the uniform collar. On the reverse, scrutinize the crown's intricate details and individual leaves within the wreath. Due to the large 32mm copper flan, these coins frequently show softness of strike, especially in finer hair strands and legend. Well-struck examples with minimal planchet imperfections and contact marks are highly prized.