Banknote France 20 Francs - Ville - Roubaix-Tourcoing - 15-12-1917 - 13éme Série - SPECIMEN

This French emergency banknote has a face value of 20 francs. It was issued on December 15, 1917, by the cities of Roubaix and Tourcoing, located in the Nord department.

This banknote is a specimen from the 13th series of common and urban emergency issues released in France during the period from 1914 to 1918, an era marked by the First World War and the resulting economic hardships. These local issues were implemented to address the lack of circulating fiat currency.

The 20-franc banknote from Roubaix-Tourcoing is a testament to local economic history during a time of crisis. As a specimen, it holds particular interest for collectors and historians interested in emergency currency and regional history.

The issuance of emergency banknotes by the cities of Roubaix and Tourcoing illustrates the autonomy that some local authorities had to cope with monetary shortages during the war. These banknotes helped maintain economic activity and facilitate trade within communities.

The inscription "SPECIMEN" indicates that this banknote was not intended for general circulation and likely served as a model or sample for authorities or printers. This adds to its rarity and historical value.