Belgium 5 Francs 1873 – Léopold II small head (Silver Weight 25 g) Coin #V-161

Issuer	Belgium
King	Leopold II (1865-1909)
Type	Standard circulation coins
Years	1865-1878
Value	5 Francs (5 BEF)
Currency	Franc (1832-2001)
Composition	Silver (.900) (10% copper)
Weight	25 g
Diameter	37 mm
Thickness	3 mm
Shape	Round
Technique	Milled
Orientation	Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized	30 July 1932

The Belgium 5 Francs 1873 is a historic silver coin struck under King Léopold II, the second monarch of the Kingdom of Belgium, during the “small head” design phase minted between 1865 and 1878. This coin captures a pivotal era of Belgian monetary history, when the nation was solidifying its industrial and colonial ambitions under Léopold II’s reign. Crafted from .900 fine silver with a 10% copper alloy, this coin weighs a substantial 25 grams and measures 37mm in diameter, giving it a satisfying heft and presence typical of 19th-century large silver crown coins.

The obverse features a finely engraved left-facing portrait of Léopold II, created by the renowned Belgian medalist Léopold Wiener, with French legend “LEOPOLD II ROI DES BELGES” encircling the bust. Officially demonetized on 30 July 1932, surviving examples now serve as tangible relics of Belgium’s monarchical and economic history.

For collectors, this coin represents an important type within the Léopold II circulation series, appealing to numismatists focused on European silver crowns, Belgian royal history, or 19th-century engraving artistry. Its silver content, historical significance, and aesthetic detail make it a worthy addition to any serious collection.