Banknote France 20 Francs - Ville - Saint-Quentin - 06-03-1916 - Série E

This 20 franc banknote, issued by the City of Saint-Quentin, dates from March 6, 1916. It is a municipal bond, a form of emergency currency issued during times of crisis or cash shortage.

The front of the banknote features several distinctive elements. The designation "Bon Municipal de VINGT FRANCS" (Municipal Bond of TWENTY FRANCS) clearly indicates its function. The face value, "20 FRANCS", is inscribed in a cartouche located in the upper right corner. The authorization date, "Délibération du Conseil Municipal du 6 Mars 1916" (Deliberation of the Municipal Council of March 6, 1916), specifies the legal context of its issuance. The serial number, "N° 39381", uniquely identifies this banknote within the E series. A circular black stamp, bearing the inscription "RECETTE MUNICIPALE DE ST-QUENTIN - SÉRIE E" (Municipal Revenue of St-Quentin - Series E), attests to its authenticity and origin.

A redemption clause specifies the conditions of its validity: "Remboursable en espèces à vue sur présentation à la Recette Municipale trois mois après la signature de la paix." (Redeemable in cash on sight upon presentation to the Municipal Revenue Office three months after the signing of peace.) This mention emphasizes the temporary nature of this means of payment, linked to the exceptional situation of the First World War.

The banknote is signed "P. le Maire : Le Conseiller Municipal délégué," (P. the Mayor: The Delegate Municipal Councillor,) with an illegible handwritten signature, authenticating the municipality's commitment. The entire banknote is printed in shades of red/red-orange and black, with clear security patterns, demonstrating efforts to prevent counterfeiting. The dominant red-orange color gives the banknote its own visual identity.