Congo - Democratic Republic: Franc

100 Centimes = 1 Franc

 

50 Centimes (Soccer)

Year: 2002
Metal: Aluminium
Weight: 2.2 g
Diameter: 26.97 mm
Thickness: 1.8 mm

This coin from Congo is unique in a way that it has year 2002 on its both sides. Usually any coin has year inscribed on only one side.

Obverse side has a Lion inscribed on it.The image is beautifully crafted with all the minute details of this legendary animal. 

Reverse side has a soccer player in a 'Heading' position. This image is also crafted beautifully with a minute details of the player e.g. shoe spikes etc.

It is said that this coin is a dummy coin as the original coin was made of silver and these silver coins are prohibited from taking out of Congo. Hence for collection purpose these dummy coins are produced.  Wikipedia says that it is a design coin made from Aluminium (Al) to be sold to foreign collectors as no circulating coins exists in Congo, pretty Interesting huh !!!

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (1997 - Current), was formerly known as The Republic of ZAIRE from 1971 - 1997, and before that, it was the BELGIAN CONGO from 1908 - 1971.

The Congo is where the Pygmies originated.

Click here to know about Democratic Republic of Congo.

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