Banknote France 1 Franc - Marseille - Chamber of Commerce - 05-06-1917 - Serial X-R

This French banknote, with a face value of one franc, was issued on June 5, 1917 by the Chamber of Commerce of Marseille. It belongs to the X-R series and features inscriptions in Latin.

The obverse of the banknote bears the inscription "CHAMBRE DE COMMERCE DE MARSEILLE" in capital letters, followed by the value "UN FRANC". It also includes the indications "Le Trésorier" (The Treasurer) and "Les Membres Délégués" (The Delegate Members), suggesting those responsible for the issue. The design is simple, highlighting the essential information relating to the issuer and the value of the banknote.

The reverse of the banknote reproduces an extract from the deliberations of the Chamber of Commerce of Marseille. This text explains the decision to proceed with a new replacement print run in order to withdraw existing banknotes from circulation. It specifies that the new banknotes will be issued in sums of fifty francs or multiples, in exchange for banknotes from the Banque de France, cash or used banknotes. The text also emphasizes that these banknotes will be redeemable in banknotes from the Banque de France or in cash. The value "1Fr." is repeated twice on the right side of the banknote.

At the bottom of the reverse, there is the signature "H. ROUIT INVT & DELT IMP. MOULLOT - MARSEILLE", indicating the designer H. Rouit and the printer Moullot of Marseille. The banknote reflects the economic and financial context of France during the First World War, where the Chambers of Commerce were led to issue their own currency to overcome cash shortages.