Catalog
| Issuer | Congo Free State (1885-1908) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1887-1896 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 5 Francs |
| Currency | Franc (1887-1960) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Léopold Wiener |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#8.1, LA#VCM-12 |
| Obverse description | Bust facing left. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
LEOPOLD II R.D.BELGES SOUV.DE L`ETAT INDEP.DU CONGO L. WIENER (Translation: Leopold II, King of the Belgians, Sovereign of the Free State of the Congo) |
| Reverse description | Crowned arms supported by two lions. Denomination on top and date at bottom. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
5 FRANCS TRAVAIL ET PROGRES 1887 (Translation: 5 Francs Work and Progress 1887) |
| Edge | Inscripted |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1887 - - 8 000 1891 - - 30 000 1894 - - 50 000 1896 - - 110 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 2592069970 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 5 Francs coin of Léopold II, issued for the Congo Free State (1887-1896), marks a pivotal, controversial chapter in colonial history. Léopold II, King of the Belgians, governed this vast African territory as his personal domain following the 1884-85 Berlin Conference. This coinage established a monetary system for resource extraction—primarily rubber and ivory—within a regime notorious for brutal administration. It symbolizes Léopold's sovereign authority and the economic ambitions underpinning one of history's most tragic colonial enterprises.
Artistry: The design of this 5 Francs piece reflects late 19th-century European numismatic portraiture. Likely executed by Léopold Wiener or an artist from the Brussels Mint, the style is Neoclassical. The obverse features a finely rendered laureate bust of Léopold II, facing right, conveying regal dignity. The reverse typically displays the denomination within a wreath, accompanied by the legend 'ETAT INDEPENDANT DU CONGO' and the date, asserting the entity's distinct sovereignty.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine silver, weighing 25 grams and 37mm, this large coin offers ample detail. Key high-points for grading include the highest curls of Léopold II's hair, the laurel wreath leaves, and the ear. On the reverse, assess the sharpness of the wreath's elements and lettering. Well-preserved examples exhibit strong luster and full strike detail, particularly in the hair strands, which are often susceptible to wear or strike weakness, affecting grade.