Katanga Cross

[goossen]

From Wikipedia:

A Katanga cross, also called a handa, is a cast copper cross which was once used as a form of currency in parts of what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Katanga crosses were made in various sizes, typically about 20 cm (8 inches) across, and weighing about 1 kilogram (2 pounds). The name derives from Katanga, a rich copper mining region in the south-eastern portion of the DRC.

Now, let me introduce my coin from this this country.

Bronze 1 Franc, depicting the described Katanga Cross.

Katanga was independent for a short period of time between 1960 and 1963, when it was forced to reunite with The Congo.

[Abhay]

Interestingly, the Coins of Katanga were issued only for one year, 1961. Only 2 denominations were issued - 1 Franc and 5 Francs, both made of Bronze. The reverse shows Bananas within a circle. SCWC also mentions 5 franc coins minted in Gold.

Abhay

[Quant.Geek]

Here is my recent acquisition to add to my collection of primitive monies:

Province of Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo: Anonymous (ca. 18-19th century) AE Handa

A high-resolution image of this coin is available at FORVM Ancient Coins

[capnbirdseye]

Also interesting is that when that coin was issued in 1961 they were forbidden to be taken out of the country & I was quite surprised to find one in the following year

[Quant.Geek]

Also interesting is that when that coin was issued in 1961 they were forbidden to be taken out of the country & I was quite surprised to find one in the following year

With a statement like that, it is music to the ears of coin collectors, so I am not surprised 

[Globetrotter]

and I have both the 1 (AU) and 5 (XF) Fr coins. I got both in 2007.

Ole

[Mycoins]

Also interesting is that when that coin was issued in 1961 they were forbidden to be taken out of the country & I was quite surprised to find one in the following year

Very interesting !
How about the goldpiece , can you recall when you first heard of those  ?

[Aernout]

5 francs 1961 Katanga gold piece (13,32 grams)

gr,
Aernout