Very rare issue struck to commemorate the marriage of Prince Leopold I and Marie Henriette, Duchess of Brabant, celebrated on August 21–22, 1853.
The union was politically and symbolically significant. Belgium, a young kingdom established after the revolution of 1830, needed dynastic stability and international alliances to strengthen its position in Europe. By marrying into the House of Habsburg, the Belgian royal family secured ties with one of the most powerful dynasties of the time.
Marie Henriette, noted for her strong personality, artistic patronage, and passion for horses, brought Austrian cultural influence into the Belgian court. Her marriage to Philippe (later King Leopold II) was crucial in consolidating the role of the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in Belgium.
With a mintage of only 482 pieces, the medal was intended for a select circle of political elites, aristocracy, and diplomats. It was both a prestigious keepsake and a dynastic statement of Belgium’s stability and its integration into Europe’s network of royal houses.
Obverse: Leopold's head left, below the signature L.WIENER.
LEOPOLD PRIME MINISTER ROI DES BELGES
Reverse: conjoined busts of Prince Philippe, Duke of Brabant, and his consort Marie Henriette, facing right, below the signature LEOP. WIENER.
LLPH. MV DUC DE BRABANT MHA DUCHESSE DE BRABANT / 21-22 AOUT 1853.
Gold, diameter 37 mm, weight 32.24 g
