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20 Francs - Léopold I
| Issuer | Belgium |
|---|---|
| Year | 1834-1841 |
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| Composition | Log in to see details |
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| Reference(s) | KM#A23, LA#BFM-152, Fr#404, Delmonte G#1263, Delmonte G#1262 |
| Obverse description | Bare-headed effigy of King Leopold I facing right, rendered in high relief with fine portrait detail characteristic of Braemt's engraving style. A legend in French encircles the bust along the periphery, identifying the monarch. The engraver's signature 'BRAEMT F.' appears in small lettering at the lower right of the portrait. The field is smooth and unadorned, drawing attention to the sculptural quality of the royal likeness. A toothed border frames the entire design. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
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| Additional information |
Belgium's first gold coinage as an independent state, this issue was authorized almost immediately after the young kingdom secured international recognition at the London Conference of 1831. Léopold I, a German prince imported to satisfy the great powers, understood that a credible gold coinage was inseparable from credible statehood. The specification deliberately mirrored the French 20 francs, ensuring the new nation's currency would circulate without friction across the border with its largest trading partner.
The multiple Delmonte references reflect documented die variations across the production run, which spanned seven years and several adjustments to the Brussels mint's working dies.