Banknote Billet France 100 francs 1917

Remarks:

Plis, salissures, épinglages

The 100 francs Luc Olivier Merson banknote issued in 1917 belongs to one of the most iconic series of the Banque de France from the early 20th century. This specimen bears the series reference T.3873, allowing its precise identification within the overall production of this type.

The Merson type takes its name from the French painter and illustrator Luc-Olivier Merson (1846-1920), a renowned academician who was commissioned to design the visuals of this banknote. His style, rooted in French academic and Symbolist traditions, is reflected in the richness of the allegorical compositions adorning the front and back of the note. The typical representations of this type include allegorical female figures representing France, accompanied by decorative elements characteristic of Belle Époque art.

The issuance of this banknote in 1917 took place in the specific context of World War I, a period during which the Banque de France had to adapt its monetary emissions to the economic and financial demands of a country at war. This period saw a sharp increase in the money supply in circulation, making banknotes from this era historically significant for understanding the French wartime economy.

From a technical standpoint, this banknote is denominated in French francs, with a face value of 100 francs, which represented a considerable sum at the time. The substrate consists of fiduciary paper, a traditional material used by the Banque de France for its issues, incorporating security features specific to the printing techniques of the era, including watermarks and carefully executed typographic and intaglio printing.

This banknote is today a sought-after collector's item among enthusiasts of French numismatics and monetary history, bearing witness to both the artistic and technical expertise characteristic of French fiduciary production during the period 1906-1920.