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Description
Remarks:
Plis, salissures, épinglages
The 1 franc coin issued in 1914 by the Bordeaux Chamber of Commerce is one of the very first emergency coins to appear at the outbreak of the First World War. The rapid disappearance of metallic currency?hoarded by the population or mobilized for the war effort?caused an immediate shortage of fractional currency, forcing authorities to authorize local issues.
Bordeaux, a major commercial port and strategic economic center, introduced these monetary tokens to maintain the fluidity of trade. These pieces circulated locally as legitimate means of payment, although they were not official State issues.
The obverse presents a simple and functional composition, with the inscription ?CHAMBRE DE COMMERCE DE BORDEAUX?, the face value ?1 FRANC?, and the year 1914. The design prioritizes legibility, with clear typography adapted for intensive daily use.
The reverse adopts a generally sober style, sometimes adorned with discreet decorative motifs or geometric elements. As with most emergency coins, the artistic aspect remains secondary, as the primary objective was utilitarian.
Technically, these pieces were struck in aluminum or light alloys, materials chosen due to the shortage of traditional metals. Their lightness and appearance distinguish them clearly from classic bronze or silver coins.
This currency had a local and temporary circulation, mainly in the Bordeaux region. It was gradually withdrawn after the war when national monetary production was restored. It no longer has legal tender status today.
From a numismatic point of view, the 1 franc Bordeaux 1914 is a particularly interesting piece due to its early nature. It bears witness to the first economic responses to the monetary crisis linked to the conflict. Its value depends heavily on its state of preservation, with well-preserved examples being the most sought after.
Finally, for the collector, this piece constitutes a major testament to the start of the war. It illustrates the rapid adaptation of local structures in the face of a brutal monetary shortage, making these tokens objects of significant historical and numismatic importance.
