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.