5 Francs / Frank BEF Banknote (World War I Issue) 1922-1926

5 Francs / Frank Belgian Franc (Issued 1922-1926)

The post-war Belgian franc notes of this period represent a transitional phase in the nation’s monetary recovery, when economic stabilisation required both artistic confidence and technical innovation in currency design. Collectors recognise the 1922-1926 series as particularly significant because it marked Belgium’s return to sustained banknote production following the severe disruptions of the First World War. The engraving quality and portraiture on these notes demonstrate the Belgian state’s deliberate commitment to projecting economic renewal through high-quality currency production. The specific combination of French and Flemish text reflects Belgium’s linguistic duality and the political complexities of the post-war period.

On the front, a three-quarter portrait faces left in a medallion style, occupying the left portion of the composition with meticulous portrait engraving rendered entirely in deep blue-black ink on an off-white paper stock. The subject wears formal military dress with pronounced shoulder epaulettes and ornate insignia typical of early twentieth-century European monarchy. The denomination “CINQ FRANCS” appears in substantial lettering across the centre of the note, flanked by the dual-language institution name “BANQUE NATIONALE DE BELGIQUE” above and “NATIONALE BANK VAN BELGÏE” below. A large circular guillochéd pattern occupies the right side, comprising concentric geometric lines and decorative rosettes in elaborate Arts Décoratif style. The serial number “B 105 958524” is printed in two locations, top right and lower left. Ornamental corner blocks featuring circular decorative motifs frame all four corners, whilst the issuing authority appears prominently across the design. Fine hatching and cross-hatching create tonal depth throughout the composition, demonstrating advanced engraving craftsmanship.

The reverse depicts an allegorical female figure in classical pose, seated and gazing toward an industrial cityscape rendered in pale blue-grey tones across the middle distance. The figure wears draped robes and rests one arm upon what appears to be a heraldic shield bearing the Belgian coat of arms. The cityscape behind her shows factory chimneys and buildings, symbolising Belgian industrial capacity and post-war reconstruction. The institution name “NATIONALE BANK VAN BELGÏE” appears in capitals across the upper portion, with “VIJF FRANK” and “BETAALBÀR OP ZICHT” below. The same ornamental corner blocks frame the reverse design, and additional geometric guillochéd patterns and circular medallions populate the borders in consistent style with the obverse. A large blank oval space, reserved for watermark visibility when held to light, dominates the left portion of the design.

This 5 Francs Belgian banknote can be exchanged through Webuyallcurrency.com, where old or withdrawn Belgian Francs banknotes are bought alongside other foreign currency — ideal for clearing a drawer of mixed coins and notes at once.

• Indicate the quantity of 5 Francs / Frank Belgian Franc banknotes you want to exchange
• Click the ‘Add to your account’ button
• Your online account now shows the exchange value

Exchange foreign coins and banknotes the easy way — Webuyallcurrency.com buys Belgian Francs banknotes, current or discontinued, and combines them with the rest of your leftover currency for one simple payment.