Banknote Billet France 100 francs 1940

Remarks:

Plusieurs épinglages, plis et trâces

The 100 Francs Sully banknote dated January 25, 1940 belongs to an issue of the Banque de France produced during the Second World War. The series D.7042 allows this specimen to be precisely identified within the overall production of this type of banknote.

This banknote takes its name from Maximilien de Béthune, Duke of Sully, loyal minister and close friend of Henry IV, an iconic figure in the economic and financial management of France in the early 17th century. His effigy is depicted on the banknote, reflecting the French tradition of honouring notable historical figures on its currency.

The 100 Francs Sully type was issued by the Banque de France from 1939 onwards, at a time of intense political and military tensions in Europe. The issue date of January 25, 1940 places this banknote in the early months of the Second World War, just a few months before the French defeat of June 1940, which lends this specimen particular historical and documentary value.

From an aesthetic standpoint, the banknote displays the graphic characteristics typical of Banque de France productions of that era, featuring finely engraved motifs, complex decorative elements designed to deter counterfeiting, as well as the official indications of the face value of 100 francs. The graphic composition blends portraiture, allegorical ornamentation and typography consistent with the standards of French fiduciary printing from the interwar period.

The face value of 100 francs represented a significant denomination in the French monetary system at the time. This banknote now stands as a direct testimony to monetary circulation in France during one of the most turbulent periods of the 20th century.