Banknote France 1 Franc - Chamber of Commerce - Nord et Pas-deCalais - Serie B

This 1 franc note was issued in 1917 by the Chambers of Commerce of the Nord and Pas-de-Calais regions, belonging to Series B. It is a local issue intended to facilitate economic exchanges during a period marked by the difficulties of World War I.

The front of the note features an ornamental frame composed of geometric, floral, and plant motifs. The face value, "1 FRANC", is clearly visible. It also includes the mentions "PREMIER GROUPEMENT ÉCONOMIQUE RÉGIONAL" (FIRST REGIONAL ECONOMIC GROUP) and "CHAMBRES DE COMMERCE DU NORD ET DU PAS-DE-CALAIS" (CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF THE NORTH AND PAS-DE-CALAIS). The signatures of the Treasurer and President authenticate the note. The serial number is B 1.320.426.

The back of the note depicts the coats of arms of the cities of ARMENTIÈRES, DOUAI, ARRAS, DUNKERQUE, AVESNES, LILLE, BÉTHUNE, ROUBAIX, BOULOGNE, SAINT-OMER, CALAIS, TOURCOING, CAMBRAI, and VALENCIENNES, each topped by its respective belfry. The mention "CHAMBRES DE COMMERCE DE" (CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF) precedes the enumeration of the cities. The value of "5 Centimes" is also indicated. An important clause specifies that the notes in circulation were exchangeable for banknotes of the Banque de France until December 31, 1925.

This note bears witness to a time when local institutions took initiatives to alleviate currency shortages and support regional economic activity in times of crisis. It represents a valuable historical document for understanding the economic and social issues of France during World War I.