5 euro Belgium 2023 - Spirou et Fantasio colorisée

Spirou and Fantasio are proudly celebrating their 85th anniversary as an inseparable duo in the world of comics. To mark this event, the Royal Belgian Mint, in close collaboration with the publisher, has issued an energetic commemorative coin worth 5 euros. The coin is available in two versions: embossed and colored. It's a real celebration for these well-known jubilee reporters!

Initially created by French cartoonist Robert Velter, also known as Rob-Vel, the series was then entrusted to Jijé, who added the character of Fantasio, and then to André Franquin, under whose direction it enjoyed resounding success. Franquin enriched the Spirou et Fantasio universe by introducing iconic characters such as the Marsupilami and many others.

Spirou, recognizable by his red bellboy suit with gold buttons, is actually a journalist. Intelligent, inventive and serious, his personality sets him apart. Fantasio, also a journalist, is more cautious, but also clumsy and sometimes short-tempered. Together, accompanied by their squirrel Spip, they fight against criminals. Many of their adventures take place in the fictional town of Rommelgem, where they maintain a close friendship with Count Pancratius Edelhart Ladislas Philippus, an inventor with a passion for mushrooms.

It's also worth noting that Spirou and Fantasio make regular appearances in the "Guust" comic strip series, centered on the character of Guust Flater, also created by André Franquin. This interconnection between the series has made it possible to develop an extended universe and further enrich the adventures of these emblematic characters.

Spirou and Fantasio have captivated readers for over 85 years, thanks to their exciting stories, their complementary duo dynamic and their many endearing characters. Their invaluable contribution to Franco-Belgian comics continues to this day, and this commemoration marks an important milestone in their creative journey.

Print run 7,500 copies