Banknote France 1 Franc - Chambre de Commerce - Bergerac - 15-06-1917 - 32837

This French banknote was issued by the Chamber of Commerce of Bergerac on June 15, 1917. Its face value is one franc.

The front of the banknote features an elaborate design. At the center, there is a memorial dedicated to the dead of the 1870 war. The inscription "UN FRANC" is clearly indicated. The logo of the Bergerac Chamber of Commerce is also present. The handwritten signatures of the president and treasurer of the issuing institution are affixed. The date of issue, "June 15, 1917", is inscribed. The mention "RONTEX PERIGUEUX" indicates the printer responsible for the production of the banknote. The designer, L. Pigeon, is credited for the artistic design.

The back of the banknote is adorned with a coat of arms surmounted by a crown. A circular inscription refers to a circular from the Minister of Commerce dated December 9, 1916. This inscription suggests a regulatory or legal context related to the issuance of this type of banknote.

The watermark of the banknote represents bees, a potentially symbolic motif of economic activity and industry. The printer, Ronteix, is mentioned again, confirming its role in the manufacture of the banknote.

This banknote testifies to the economic and social context of France during the First World War, where Chambers of Commerce were authorized to issue emergency money to alleviate cash shortages.