Banknote France 1 Franc - Chamber of Commerce Cambrai - 15-09-1914 - 2ème Série

Remarks:

This emergency banknote was issued by the Cambrai Chamber of Commerce on September 15, 1914, and belongs to the second series of these emergency issues. Its role was to facilitate local transactions in response to a shortage of currency during the First World War.

The front of the banknote features a carmine red print on a beige-colored paper. At the top, a banner indicates the issuer, "Chambre de commerce de Cambrai." The mention "Deuxième série" (Second Series) is printed on the left, while the banknote's identification number, "N° 60.128," appears on the right. In the center, the face value "Un Franc" (One Franc) is highlighted in large characters. Immediately below, the date of issue, "15 Septembre 1914," is specified. Three handwritten signatures authenticate the banknote: those of the Treasurer, the President, and the Cashier of the Chamber of Commerce. An elaborate ornamental frame, with plant motifs and circular medallions integrating the number 1 in the corners, decorates the banknote. At the bottom, a framed text stipulates that "The present banknote will be reimbursed by the Cambrai Chamber of Commerce one hundred days after the signing of peace."

The back of the banknote repeats the red print with the banner "Chambre de commerce de Cambrai" at the top. The decorative frame is symmetrical to that of the front. The redemption cartouche is also repeated at the bottom. A blue stamp, partially visible on the right side, suggests an administrative or circulation mark on the banknote.

This emergency banknote testifies to the measures taken by local institutions to maintain economic activity in times of crisis. Its design and legal mentions reflect the urgency and specificity of its issuance.