A Royal Reflection: 1966 Belgium 50 Francs – King Baudouin I & Queen Fabiola
Pick# 139a | Printed by Banque Nationale de Belgique
Issued on May 16, 1966, this 50 Francs banknote from Belgium honors the nation’s constitutional monarchy and post-war stability. Featuring King Baudouin I and Queen Fabiola, the note reflects Belgium’s mid-century identity—rooted in tradition, yet forward-looking in its democratic values and European integration.
Part of the final series before Belgium transitioned to modern banknote designs, this issue blends regal portraiture with architectural symbolism. It’s a compelling piece for collectors interested in European royalty, Cold War-era currency, and the evolution of Belgian national imagery.
Design Highlights
Obverse:
Portraits of King Baudouin I and Queen Fabiola at right
Crowned coat of arms at lower left center
Printed in brown-violet and orange-brown on multicolored underprint
Four signatures: Marcel d'Haeze, Maurice Esselens, Emile Kestens, René Lauwerijns
Text: Royaume de Belgique – Koninkrijk België
Reverse:
Palais de la Nation (Belgian Parliament building in Brussels)
Guilloche background and denomination text
Watermark:
King Baudouin I in profile
Designers:
Luc De Decker and Henri Schepers
Specifications
Attribute Details
Country Belgium
Year 1966
Denomination 50 Francs
Issuer Kingdom of Belgium – Treasury
Printer Banque Nationale de Belgique
Size 127.5 × 64 mm
Material Paper
Pick Number P# 139a
Watermark King Baudouin I
Status Demonetized
Why Add This Note to Your Collection?
This 1966 Belgium 50 Francs note is ideal for:
Collectors of royal portraiture and European monarchies
Enthusiasts of Cold War-era European banknotes
Fans of Belgian history and architecture
Curators of mid-20th century European currency
Whether you're building a collection around European royalty or exploring the visual language of post-war national identity, this note offers historical gravitas, artistic elegance, and a glimpse into Belgium’s regal heritage.
