Belgium 1880 2 Francs Extra Fine (EF40)

Belgium 1880 2 Francs Extra Fine (EF-40) 

The Belgium 1880 2 Francs is a commemorative silver coin struck to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Belgian independence. Its issue recalls the Belgian Revolution of 1830, which began in August when riots in Brussels, sparked by an opera performance, grew into a full-scale uprising against Dutch rule. Resentment toward King William I’s authoritarian governance, religious and cultural divisions between Catholics and Protestants as well as French- and Dutch-speaking populations, and economic grievances fueled the rebellion. By September 1830, Belgian revolutionaries had expelled Dutch forces and declared independence, and after failed Dutch attempts to reassert control, international powers recognized Belgium as a neutral, sovereign kingdom. In 1831, Leopold I was installed as the first King of the Belgians, anchoring the nation’s independence, a legacy that the 1880 issue proudly commemorates.

Obverse: The profiles of Kings Leopold I and II with their names on both sides. 5-pointed star above 

Reverse: The Belgian coat of arms divides the value. Motton in front above, dates below 

Specifications:
King: Leopold II (1865-1909) 
Engraver:  Léopold Wiener 
Composition: Silver (.835) (16.5% Copper) 
Weight: 10 g 
Diameter: 27 mm 
Edge: Reeded 
Die Axis: ↑↓
Mint: Royal Mint of Belgium 
Mintage: 117647