Seeking Known Examples of the 1944 Belgian 2 Franc Silver Issue
wall315
Posts: 2 ✭
I'm researching the 1944 Belgian 2 Franc produced at the Philadelphia Mint during World War II, with a particular interest in locating and documenting surviving examples of the reported silver issue (KM #133a / Morin #501a).
I'm aware of one example certified by PCGS:
- PCGS certification: #64648451
- Variety number: #771368
- Grade: AU55
- PCGS population: 1
https://www.pcgs.com/cert/64648451
I'm hoping to learn more about this specimen and, especially, whether other examples are known.
I'm particularly interested in hearing from anyone who:
- Owns or has handled a reported silver 1944 Belgian 2 Franc.
- Remembers seeing one offered at auction or through a dealer.
- Has photographs, provenance information, or documentation relating to a specific example.
- Knows of other surviving examples, whether certified or raw.
Even an old auction appearance or a recollection of a coin that passed through a collection could be helpful. I'm interested in documenting the history of these pieces, not necessarily acquiring them.
I've published a book on the 1944 Belgian 2 Franc and am continuing the research with the goal of building a more comprehensive record of surviving specimens.
If you've encountered one, I'd appreciate any information you're willing to share. Thank you!
Comments
It's not a "silver issue" per se. Philadelphia Mint used wrong planchet to strike the coin. There are a handful of wrong planchet error coins across all minted coins including US ones. Planchets from the previous job were left in the hopper and went in with the next batch to be minted...
You're correct. My terminology was a bit imprecise. KM #133a is reported as struck on Netherlands 25-cent silver planchets, which were being used at the Philadelphia Mint during the same period. I'm trying to locate additional examples in support of my ongoing research.