1853 Belgian 1 Franc

The 1853 Belgian 1 Franc was struck from 90% silver bullion, much of which came from recycled sources amid Europe's mid-century metal shortages.

This made it a practical coin for a young nation still finding its economic footing. The obverse shows Leopold I's portrait, a design that reflected Belgium's monarchy barely two decades old, while the reverse features the lion rampant, symbolizing national pride without excess flourish. We don't know the exact mintage, as records from that era are spotty, but it was produced in Brussels, the only mint at the time.

Rarity depends on condition; circulated examples are common, but uncirculated ones fetch a premium. As for myths, no, it wasn't cursed by some forgotten alchemist—it's just a coin.