Banknote France 1 Franc - Ville - Roubaix-Tourcoing - 15-12-1917 - 13ème série

This one franc banknote was issued by the cities of Roubaix and Tourcoing on December 15, 1917. It belongs to the 13th series of this local issue.

On the obverse, the face value "1 franc" is written at the top left and right. The mention "Villes de Roubaix et de Tourcoing" is present, followed by "Bon de Monnaie". The series is also indicated: "Treizième Série" (Thirteenth Series). The value "Un Franc" (One Franc) is repeated in full. It is specified that the banknote is guaranteed by the cities of Roubaix and Tourcoing and redeemable at the municipal revenue office of each city, from the sixth month after the conclusion of peace. A reference to the deliberations of the Municipal Councils of December 15, 1917 is mentioned, as well as the need for a dry stamp of one of the two cities to validate the banknote. The name of the printer, Louis Debode of Roubaix, also appears.

The reverse features the coat of arms of the city of Roubaix on the left and that of the city of Tourcoing on the right. In the center, Article 139 of the Penal Code is reproduced. This law mentions the penalties incurred for counterfeiting or falsifying banknotes authorized by law, as well as for the use or introduction of such counterfeit banknotes on French territory. The names of the cities of Roubaix and Tourcoing are written under the law.

The banknote is written in Latin, reflecting the administrative practices of the time. The presence of legal mentions and references to municipal authorities underlines the official character of this local issue, intended to facilitate economic exchanges in a particular context.