Gold 40 fr Leopold I 1830–1980 coin

History of the Gold 40-franc Leopold I 1830–1980 Coin

The gold 40-franc Leopold I 1830–1980 commemorative coin weighs 12.9 grams and has a purity of 90%, 21.6 karats, or 11.61 grams of pure gold, ¼ ounce (oz). The coin has a diameter of 26 mm and a thickness of 1.3 mm. It was minted in the three national languages (Dutch, French, and German) to commemorate 150 years of Belgian independence (1830–1980).

Let's take a closer look:

This special gold commemorative medal was issued in 1980 to mark the 150th anniversary of Belgian independence (1830–1980). Although this coin is not legal tender, it remains a sought-after collector’s item. The medal was minted in two versions: a smaller 20-franc version and a larger 40-franc version. Both are rare and unique because they were issued in three languages:

• French: “Léopold I, King of the Belgians”

• Dutch: “Leopold I, King of the Belgians”

• German: “Léopold the First, King of the Belgians”

Features of the medal

• Design: The medal is an almost exact replica of the historic gold coins from the time of Leopold I, the first king of Belgium (reign 1831–1865). The obverse features a portrait of Leopold I with a laurel wreath, just like on the original 19th-century coins. The reverse features a laurel wreath with the inscription “1830–1980” instead of a face value, indicating that it is a commemorative piece and not legal tender.

•Material and weight:

• The 20-franc version contains 6.45 grams of gold with a purity of 90% (21.6 karats), which amounts to 5.805 grams of pure gold.

• The 40-franc version contains 12.9 grams of gold, also with a purity of 90%.

• Edge lettering: Trilingual and referring to the protection of Belgium, a nod to historic coins such as the 20-franc coins of Leopold I and II, which bore inscriptions such as “Dieu protège la Belgique.”

• Rarity: Although the exact mintage is unknown, these medals are considered relatively rare and are popular among collectors.

Historical Context

Leopold I became the first king of Belgium in 1831, following the country’s independence in 1830. This commemorative coin from 1980 celebrates this milestone and marks the founding of the kingdom. The decision to depict Leopold I highlights his role as the founder of the Belgian monarchy. The coin follows in the tradition of Belgian gold coins minted in the 19th century, such as the “Belgian Louis” (20-franc gold coins), which were part of the Latin Monetary Union.

Value and Collectibility

The value of these tokens is largely determined by their gold content, as they are less sought after by collectors than official coins.

Any premium above the price of gold is rare, unless the coin is in exceptional condition or is part of a rare set with its original packaging.

An interesting detail

These commemorative medals are part of a broader tradition of Belgian gold coins, which began under Leopold I in 1865 and continued under Leopold II and Albert I. The “Leopold I 1830–1980” medal, however, is a modern tribute, not a circulation coin like the historic 20-franc gold coins, which remain popular among collectors and investors.

Specifications