100 francs: Hendrik Conscience (writer) with rural Flemish scenes 500 francs: René Magritte (surrealist artist) with elements from his paintings 1000 francs: André Ernest Modeste Grétry (composer) with musical motifs 5000 francs: Lambert Lombard (Renaissance painter) with architectural elements

Key design elements included detailed portraits, intricate background imagery related to each figure’s work or era, and a color palette ranging from soft pastels to rich, deep tones. The series highlighted Belgium’s cultural diversity, artistic achievements, and historical legacy. These notes incorporated advanced security features for their time and remained in circulation alongside the subsequent series until Belgium’s adoption of the euro in 2002.

Belgium’s 1994-1997 banknote series was the last before the euro’s adoption. Designed by various artists, these notes featured:

100 francs: James Ensor (painter) 200 francs: Adolphe Sax (inventor of the saxophone) 500 francs: René Magritte (surrealist artist) 1000 francs: Constant Permeke (expressionist painter) 2000 francs: Victor Horta (Art Nouveau architect) 10000 francs: King Albert II and Queen Paola

Each note showcased the featured person’s portrait and elements related to their work or legacy. The series employed vibrant colors, intricate designs, and advanced security features. These banknotes represented Belgium’s cultural and artistic heritage, circulating until the country transitioned to the euro in 2002.