Belgium: Commemorative Cross of the Reign of Leopold I 1831-1865, version with the larger bust of Leopold.
Condition: Good Very Fine.
Leopold I (1790-1865) became the first King of the Belgians on 26 June 1831 soon after Belgium had declared its independence of the Netherlands. For the following eight years there was sporadic fighting between the two countries but Leopold steered his country skilfully to neutrality and stability. He married Louise-Marie, daughter of King Louis Philippe of France on 9 August 1832 and died on 10 December 1865, being succeeded by his son who became King Leopold II.
