Belgium 1871 King Leopold II 5 Francs Coin
Coin (Numismatic, Historical Currency) · None (Silver Alloy). The coin displays a metallic grey color with dark oxidation/tarnish.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver and 10% Copper (900 Fineness).
Type
Coin (Numismatic, Historical Currency)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver and 10% Copper (900 Fineness).
Gold Type
None (Silver Alloy). The coin displays a metallic grey color with dark oxidation/tarnish.
Weight
25.00 grams (Standard specification for a 5 Francs silver crown of this era).
Description
A classic 19th-century silver 5 Francs coin from the Latin Monetary Union era. The reverse features the Belgian shield with the Lion of Belgium under a royal crown, flanked by laurel branches. The motto 'L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE' (Unity makes Strength) arcs across the top.
Key Features
Crowned shield with rampant lion; Date 1871; LMU standard weight and fineness; 'L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE' motto.
Color & Finish
Grey-silver with deep charcoal patina/toning in the recessed areas. Significant tarnish on surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscriptions: 'L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE', '5 F', '1871'. Mint marks for Brussels may be on the reverse or edge.
Dimensions Estimate
37mm Diameter; 2.5mm Thickness (Standard Belgian 5 Francs size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design features a relief-struck Belgian coat of arms with a lion rampant.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin). The edge is reeded/lettered for security against clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin has a beaded circular border inside a smooth rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck on a heavy planchet; high-relief engraving showing fine detail in the heraldic lion and crown jewels.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font and iconography for the 1871 issue; weight/diameter ratio consistent with LMU silver; natural deep toning consistent with age-related oxidation.
Origin & Maker
Belgium; Royal Belgian Mint (Brussels).
Era & Period
Victorian Era / Kingdom of Belgium (Leopold II reign, 1865-1909).
Age Estimate
153 years old (Dated 1871).
Cultural Significance
Represents the early national identity of the Belgian monarchy under Leopold II and the economic integration of 19th-century Europe.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extra Fine (EF) details but heavily oxidized. No significant rim dings visible; surface shows minor circulation wear.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD based on silver melt value plus a modest numismatic premium for the specific year and condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; silver patina is valued by numismatists. Store in a PVC-free coin holder to prevent further environmental damage.
Similar Items
French 5 Francs (Hercules), Swiss 5 Francs (Helvetia), Italian 5 Lire (Vittorio Emanuele II).
Interesting Facts
The 5 Francs was part of the Latin Monetary Union, meaning it was interchangeable with French, Swiss, and Italian 5-unit coins of the same weight/purity.