Francis, Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld (1750-1806), was a German nobleman known for his role in the small duchy of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. He was a member of the House of Saxe-Coburg and played a significant part in the political landscape of his time. His reign saw the duchy navigate the complexities of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1806, Francis became the first Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha after the duchy was elevated. He was the father of several notable children, including Leopold I of Belgium, who became the first King of the Belgians. Francis's lineage significantly influenced European royal families.