Banknote France 10 francs - City of Lille - 31-08-1914 - Série JJ 422

This 10 franc note is a communal bond issued by the city of Lille, dated August 31, 1914, and bears the serial number JJ 422. It is a specific issue of the city, put into circulation in a particular context linked to the events of the First World War.

The obverse of the note features the following inscriptions: "VILLE DE LILLE" at the top, followed by "BON COMMUNAL" indicating its nature. The face value, "DIX FRANCS", is clearly mentioned in the center. There is also the mention "Guaranteed by the city", ensuring its value. The reference to the deliberation of the Municipal Council of December 15, 1917, approved by the Prefect of the North, is inscribed, testifying to the process of approval and legitimation of this issue. The signatures of the Municipal Receiver and the Mayor are also present. The name of the printer, L. DANEL in LILLE, is mentioned at the bottom of the obverse.

The reverse of the note contains an important legal warning, citing Article 139 of the Penal Code, which stipulates the penalties incurred for counterfeiting or falsifying banknotes, as well as for their use or introduction into French territory. The penalty mentioned is forced labor for life. In addition, it is specified that the note is only valid if it is stamped with the dry stamp of the City's Control Service. The name of the printer, Imprimerie L. Danel, Lille, France, is also repeated on the back.

This note testifies to local monetary issues made in times of crisis, in addition to or in replacement of national banknotes. Its state of preservation and rarity can make it a collector's item sought after by numismatists interested in local monetary history and emergency issues.