1948 Belgium 50 Francs – Agrarian Allegory & Post-War Renewal
Pick# 133a | Designed by Louis Buisseret | Issued by Royaume de Belgique – Trésorerie
Collector’s Summary: The 1948 Belgium 50 Francs banknote (Pick 133a) is a post-war masterpiece of agrarian symbolism, issued during a pivotal moment in European reconstruction. With its evocative rural imagery and watermark of King Leopold I, this note reflects Belgium’s cultural resilience and national pride. For elite collectors, it offers scarcity, historical depth, and artistic pedigree—a standout in mid-20th century European numismatics.
Design Highlights
Obverse:
Farm woman with fruit basket at left, symbolizing fertility and abundance
Man planting a tree at right, representing renewal and growth
Printed in yellow, green, violet, and multicolor tones
Text: Royaume de Belgique – Trésorerie, dated 01-06-1948
Signature: Van Heurck
Reverse:
Farmer with scythe at left and woman with sheaf at right—an allegory of labor and harvest
Guilloche background with denomination and treasury text
Watermark:
King Leopold I in profile, reinforcing monarchical continuity
Designer:
Louis Buisseret, renowned Belgian painter and engraver
Specifications
Attribute Details
Country Belgium
Year 1948
Denomination 50 Francs
Issuer Kingdom of Belgium – Treasury
Printer Banque Nationale de Belgique
Size 140 × 76 mm
Material Paper
Pick Number P# 133a
Watermark King Leopold I
Status Demonetized (May 1, 1974)
Why Elite Collectors Seek This Note
Scarcity & Series Prestige: Early issue from the 1948–1956 series, with lower survival rates in high grades
Artistic Merit: Designed by Louis Buisseret, whose work elevates the note beyond currency into fine art
Historical Context: Reflects Belgium’s agrarian roots and post-WWII recovery narrative
Watermark & Symbolism: King Leopold I watermark adds regal gravitas and historical continuity
Investment Potential: Increasing demand for mid-century European notes with allegorical themes
Whether you're curating a portfolio of post-war European rarities or seeking art-forward banknotes with historical resonance, the 1948 Belgium 50 Francs stands as a collector-grade acquisition—rich in symbolism, scarce in pristine condition, and deeply tied to Belgium’s cultural identity.
