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Congo-Free State Coins

The monetary history of the Congo-Free State is fascinating and reflects the political and economic changes in the region. From its foundation in 1885 until its transformation into the Belgian Congo in 1908, this territory experienced an evolution in its monetary system that left a significant mark on African numismatics.

Coins and banknotes of the Congo-Free State

During its existence, the Congo-Free State mainly used the Congolese franc as its monetary unit. The first coins, minted in 1887, included denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10 cents, made of copper. In 1896, silver coins of 50 centimes and 1 franc were introduced, followed by 2 franc coins in 1897. Banknotes, issued by the Congo Free State, began circulating in 1886 with denominations of 10 and 100 francs, later expanded to 20 and 1000 francs.

Numismatic milestones

A remarkable fact in the numismatics of the Congo-Free State was the issuance of 20 franc gold coins in 1898, which are extremely rare and highly valued by collectors. Another important aspect was the monetary transition to the Belgian Congo in 1908, when the coins and banknotes of the Free State were gradually withdrawn, replaced by new issues reflecting the change of administration. These transitional pieces are of great interest to scholars of African and colonial numismatics.

If you are a passionate collector, this catalog offers the possibility to create your own personal collection. You can add your coins and generate a free PDF catalog from a complete database and our management tools. In addition, once registered, you will have the opportunity to exchange coins with other collectors around the world easily and free of charge.

📢 Congo-Free State is a country that does not exist today. It is now part of the Congo-Rep. Democratic coins.

The most valuable coins

The most valuable Congo-Free State coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:

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The valuation of these coins has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.

Swapping available Note the coins labelled with this message, it means that there are collectors who have that coin and are willing to make a swap. Visit their collection from their personal page.

Coin Catalog

1 centime

FO#12011 KM#1
Price: 35,00€
Year: 1887-1888
Weight: 2,00 g
Composition: Copper
Diameter: 18,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

2 centimes

FO#12012 KM#2
Year: 1887-1888
Weight: 4,00 g
Composition: Copper
Diameter: 23,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

5 centimes

FO#12046 KM#3
Year: 1887-1894
Weight: 10,00 g
Composition: Copper
Diameter: 30,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

10 centimes

FO#12047 KM#4
Year: 1887-1894
Weight: 20,00 g
Composition: Copper
Diameter: 35,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

50 centimes

FO#12048 KM#5
Year: 1887-1896
Weight: 2,50 g
Composition: Silver
Diameter: 18,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

1 franc

FO#12049 KM#6
Year: 1887-1896
Weight: 5,00 g
Composition: Silver (0,935)
Diameter: 23,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

2 francs

FO#12050 KM#7
Year: 1887-1896
Weight: 10,00 g
Composition: Silver
Diameter: 28,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

5 francs

FO#12051 KM#8.1
Year: 1887-1896
Weight: 25,00 g
Composition: Silver
Diameter: 37,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

5 francs

FO#15092 KM#8.2
Year: 1887
Weight: 25,00 g
Composition: Silver
Diameter: 37,00 mm
Edge: Ribbed

5 centimes

FO#12052 KM#9
Year: 1906-1908
Weight: 2,50 g
Composition: Copper-nickel
Diameter: 19,00 mm
Edge: Smooth

10 centimes

FO#12053 KM#10
Year: 1906-1908
Weight: 4,00 g
Composition: Copper-nickel
Diameter: 22,00 mm
Edge: Smooth

20 centimes

FO#12054 KM#11
Year: 1906-1908
Weight: 6,00 g
Composition: Copper-nickel
Diameter: 25,00 mm
Edge: Smooth

Other resources to find coins and banknotes of Congo-Free State

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