We all know the saying "As free as a bird (in the sky)". It means you're free to do whatever you want. A fine goal to aim for, but unfortunately it didn't apply to the birds themselves a century ago. Instead, they were "outlaws", unprotected, disenfranchised and exposed to persecution from all quarters.

Bird protection
Birdwatching seemed almost a national sport in the last century. These winged creatures were captured for their feathers, ended up on our plates or had to take part in chaffinch singing competitions. The way they were caught was also very brutal, resulting in certain death. Around 1922, people in Belgium began to unite to put an end to bird abuse. Gradually, an avian conscience developed, and laws and regulations made it possible to treat birds more humanely. After all, birds are good for people and the environment!

Special coin to celebrate 100 years of bird protection!

That's why the Royal Mint of Belgium has issued a 2.5 euro coin on the theme "100 years of bird protection in Belgium". The 2.5 euros are minted in BU quality and appear in two language versions. The coin card features nostalgic images of birds in Belgium. The atmosphere is that of over a hundred years ago, when interest in birds shifted from hunting to wonder. The coin depicts a male robin, which lives in Belgium all year round and is for many a symbol of hope.