Belgium 10 Francs Silver Coin 1970
Coin/Bullion · Royal Belgian Mint (Monnaie Royale de Belgique), the official mint of the Kingdom of Belgium, established in its modern form in 1832.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Coinage, King Baudouin I Era
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Royal Belgian Mint (Monnaie Royale de Belgique), the official mint of the Kingdom of Belgium, established in its modern form in 1832.
Material
Silver alloy .835 (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). Each coin contains approximately 0.2148 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 27 mm; Thickness: 1.83 mm; Weight: 8.00 grams. Standard circulation size for middle-denomination currency.
Description
This 1970 Belgian 10 Franc silver coin represents the final decade of significant silver circulation in Belgium. The French-script version ('BELGIQUE') indicates it was minted for the French-speaking population or general national circulation. The obverse depicts the grand Belgian Royal Arms, featuring a shield with the Belgian Lion, surrounded by the collar of the Order of Leopold and topped with a royal crown.
Key Features
Silver fineness of .835; presence of the 'Bird' mint master mark; French language legend; high-relief heraldic shield design.
Material & Composition
Silver alloy .835 (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). Each coin contains approximately 0.2148 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin/circulated finish with relief engraving. Obverse features the Coat of Arms of Belgium with a mantle and crown. Reverse typically features the head of King Baudouin I (not shown). Neoclassical heraldic style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend 'BELGIQUE' (French) and '10 F' denomination. Date '1970'. Includes the mint master's mark (a bird for Robert Vogeleer) and the Brussels mint mark (angel head).
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck mintage. High-pressure mechanical press striking planchets (metal blanks). Reeded or lettered edge.
Functional Features
Currency for trade and commerce; serrated/reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of precious metal.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard flat coin profile for transport and stacking.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck precision; high detail in the heraldic mantle and lion; consistent thickness and diameter; professional die alignment.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic edge reeding; specific weight of 8g; correct '1970' typography; alignment of the mint marks; standard silver luster visible through the toning.
Origin & Manufacturing
Brussels, Belgium. Manufactured at the national mint using standardized industrial minting equipment.
Era & Period
Modern Era; Post-WWII European reconstruction and Pre-Eurozone period (King Baudouin I reign).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1970 (54 years old). Confirmed by the date stamp visible on the reverse.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Belgian national identity and economic stability prior to the adoption of the Euro in 2002. It reflects the post-war tradition of using silver for mid-value currency.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (Very Fine/Extra Fine). Visible moderate tarnish (toning) consistent with silver sulfide exposure. Surface shows light bag marks and contact scratches but retains strong detail in the heraldry.
Value Estimate
$8.00 - $12.00 USD. Value is primarily dictated by its silver melt value (ASW) plus a small numismatic premium for quality.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this lowers numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules. Keep in a cool, dry place to prevent further heavy oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1970 Belgium 10 Francs (Dutch version 'België'), 1969 10 Francs, 50 Francs silver commemoratives. Similar in size to US Quarters but significantly higher silver content.
Interesting Facts
During 1969-1979, Belgium produced these coins in two versions: one with Belgian/French (Belgique) and one with Flemish/Dutch (België) to respect national linguistic parity.