Banknote France 50 Cents - Avignon Chamber of Commerce - 1914 - Number 123

Remarks:

Plis, salissures, 1 épinglage 

The 50-cent banknote issued by the Avignon Chamber of Commerce in 1920 belongs to the second series of this type of issue. This emergency banknote was produced in a specific economic context, marked by the consequences of the First World War.

This type of banknote was issued to compensate for the lack of metallic currency in circulation. The need to maintain local trade led the Avignon Chamber of Commerce to issue this substitute currency.

The banknote has graphic characteristics specific to the period and the issuing institution. The colors used are generally sober, with shades ranging from brown to beige, sometimes enhanced with touches of blue or red for the serial numbers and important mentions. The paper used is of modest quality, often watermarked to limit the risk of counterfeiting.

The dimensions of the banknote are small, facilitating its handling and storage. On the front and back are ornamental motifs typical of the nascent Art Deco, as well as symbolic representations linked to the economic activity of the Avignon region. Legal mentions, such as the face value, the year of issue and the name of the issuer, are clearly indicated. The mention "Chambre de Commerce d'Avignon" is prominently displayed, attesting to the issuing authority.

The typography used is neat, with legible and harmonious characters. The serial number, unique for each banknote, is affixed with a specific ink to guarantee its authenticity. The signature of the head of the Chamber of Commerce may also be present, adding an additional guarantee.