Obverse:
The obverse features a right-facing portrait of King Leopold I, wearing a military uniform. The surrounding legend identifies the monarch as LEOPOLD I ROI DES BELGES. The portrait emphasizes authority and continuity in the formative years of the Belgian state.

Reverse:
The reverse displays the denomination “10 CENTIMES” within a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory, unity, and civic virtue. Below the denomination is the year 1863, with the legend L’UNION FAIT LA FORCE (“Unity Makes Strength”), Belgium’s national motto.

Specifications:

• Composition: Copper

• Weight: approx. 10.00 g

• Diameter: approx. 30.00 mm

• Edge: Plain

• Alignment: Medal (0°)

• Mint mark: None (Brussels Mint standard issue)

Historical Insight:
In 1863, Belgium was undergoing rapid industrial growth, becoming one of the first industrialized nations in continental Europe. Coinage of this period reflects economic expansion, increased internal trade, and the strengthening of national identity under Leopold I, whose reign laid the foundations of modern Belgium.

Collecting Note:
Belgian copper centimes of the mid-19th century are valued for their historical significance and elegant neoclassical design. While not rare, well-preserved examples are attractive to collectors of European monarchies, early national coinage, and 19th-century copper issues.

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