Banknote France 50 Cents - Chamber of Commerce - Rouen - 1916

This 50 centime banknote was issued by the Rouen Chamber of Commerce in 1917 as a replacement issue. The front of the banknote features an ornamental frame with plant motifs. In the upper part, a central medallion depicts a winged caduceus, a symbol traditionally associated with commerce and negotiation. On either side of this medallion, two heraldic shields are depicted.

Several inscriptions in Latin are present. We can read "VILLE DE ROUEN" and "CHAMBRE DE COMMERCE DE ROUEN", identifying the issuer and the city concerned. The face value "50 CENTIMES" is clearly indicated. The mention "Émission de remplacement" specifies the context of this issue. A serial number, here "n°059.043", is also printed. Legal notices indicate that the issue was approved by the Higher Administration and carried out under the guarantee of the City and the Chamber of Commerce. The signatures of the Mayor and the President are also mentioned. The name of the printer, "IMP. RICHARD, PARIS", appears at the bottom of the banknote.

The reverse of the banknote contains articles relating to the exchange and reimbursement of vouchers. Article 4 specifies that the Banque de France will not exchange the vouchers for an amount less than 20 francs. Article 5 stipulates the conditions for on-demand reimbursement of the vouchers, including the possibility of demanding reimbursement for a minimum amount of 100 francs, or for a lower amount supplemented by banknotes from the Banque de France or in cash. Articles 6 and 7 define the procedures for liquidation of the issue, the reimbursement deadlines and the conditions for forfeiture of rights for holders who have not presented their vouchers within the allotted time.