The Unusual Katanga Cross Joel Anderson - July 28, 1996   Katanga is a rich copper mining region is the south-eastern portion of Zaire. An unusual form of money, consisting of large, heavy, copper crosses was used in the region in the 19th and early 20th century. The crosses, about 8 or 9 inches across and weighing about 2 pounds were cast by native coppersmiths. A single cross might buy 10 kilos of flour or 6 axes. 2 crosses could purchase a gun. The Katanga region declared its independence from The Congo (now Zaire) shortly after Belgium granted the region its independence in 1960. In 1961 Katanga issued its first coins, a copper 1 Franc and 5 Franc for circulation. A gold version of the 5 Franc was also issued as a non-circulating commemorative. As an homage to it's heritage, the coins pictured the Katanga Cross. After years of fighting Katanga was forcibly reunited with The Congo in 1963. Click here to email this article to a friend. PCGS Library