Banknote France 20 francs - City of Lille - 15-12-1917 - Série U75 278

This 20 Francs banknote is a communal bond issued by the city of Lille, dated December 15, 1917, and is part of the I68-94 series. The front of the banknote features several important inscriptions. It includes the mention "VILLE DE LILLE" in capital letters, followed by "BON COMMUNAL Guaranteed by the city". The face value, "VINGT FRANCS", is clearly indicated. The text specifies that the issuance of this communal bond is based on a deliberation of the Municipal Council of December 15, 1917, approved by the Prefect of the North. The signatures of the Municipal Receiver and the Mayor also appear on the front. At the bottom of the banknote, you can read "L. DANEL à LILLE", indicating the printer responsible for its production.

The back of the banknote contains legal information and warnings. Article 139 of the Penal Code is cited, stipulating that the counterfeiting or falsification of banknotes authorized by law, as well as the use or introduction of such counterfeit banknotes, are punishable by forced labor for life. An important note specifies that the bond is only valid if it is stamped with the dry stamp of the City's Control Service. The printer is also mentioned on the back: "Imprimerie L. Danel, Lille, France". This banknote served as a local means of payment in a context where financial resources may have been limited, and it was essential to guarantee its authenticity with an official control stamp.