5 Francs 1961 front 5 Francs 1961 back
5 Francs 1961 photo
© Heritage Auctions

5 Francs

1961 year
Gold (.900) 13.33 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Katanga (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Period
Republic (1960-1963)
Type
Non-circulating coin
Year
1961
Value
5 Francs
Currency
Franc (1960-1963)
Composition
Gold (.900)
Weight
13.33 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
January 1963
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#43621
Rarity index
73%

Reverse

Katanga Cross, value and date within circle.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
BANQUE NATIONALE
5 FR
1961

Edge

Plain

Comment

The Katanga Cross, also referred to as Baluba Cross, was cast by pouring copper into sand moulds. Widely used as currency: 3 pieces would buy a goat, 3-5 a male slave and 5-10 a female slave.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 5 Francs 1961 coin from Katanga (Democratic Republic of the Congo) is that it was minted during a time of political turmoil in the region. The coin was issued by the State of Katanga, which was a breakaway state that declared independence from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1960. The coin's mintage was likely intended to promote the new state's independence and sovereignty, but it was ultimately unsuccessful, as Katanga was reintegrated into the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1963. Despite this, the coin remains a unique and interesting artifact of a brief but significant moment in African history.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
1961  20000 - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for 5 Francs 1961 coin.