Banknote France 2 Francs - Chamber of Commerce Cambrai - 15-09-1914 - 2ème Série

This 2 franc emergency banknote was issued by the Cambrai Chamber of Commerce on September 15, 1914, during the First World War. It belongs to the second series of these emergency issues, intended to facilitate local economic transactions in the absence of sufficient official currency. Its identification number is 87.165.

On the obverse, the printing is done in carmine red on beige-colored paper. At the top, a banner bears the inscription "Chambre de commerce de Cambrai". The mention "Deuxième série" (Second series) appears on the left, while the serial number appears on the right. The face value, "Deux francs" (Two francs), is printed in large characters in the center of the banknote. Immediately below, the date of issue is clearly indicated: "15 Septembre 1914" (September 15, 1914). Three handwritten signatures authenticate the banknote, those of the Treasurer, the President and the Cashier of the Chamber of Commerce. A rich ornamental frame, composed of plant and symbolic motifs, decorates the periphery of the banknote. Circular medallions integrating the number 1 are present in the corners. At the bottom, a framed text specifies the repayment conditions: "Le présent billet sera remboursé par la Chambre de commerce de Cambrai cent jours après la signature de la paix" (This banknote will be refunded by the Cambrai Chamber of Commerce one hundred days after the signing of peace).

The reverse repeats the same red printing, with the "Chambre de commerce de Cambrai" banner at the top and the decorative frame symmetrical to that of the obverse. The redemption cartouche is also repeated at the bottom. A blue stamp, partially visible on the right side, suggests administrative use or circulation validation. The banknote testifies to the measures taken by local authorities to maintain economic activity in times of crisis.