Coin Pièce France 2 francs Silver 1914 C Castelsarrasin

The 2 francs Semeuse coin dated 1914 belongs to one of the most iconic series in 20th-century French numismatics. Struck at the Castelsarrasin mint, identifiable by the letter C appearing on the obverse or reverse of the coin, it is part of a particular monetary production, as the Castelsarrasin mint was reactivated during a period of high demand.

The obverse of this coin features the famous figure of the Semeuse (Sower), a work by engraver Oscar Roty, introduced on French coins from 1897 onwards. This female allegory is depicted walking in profile towards the left, sowing seeds against the wind, with a rising sun in the background. This composition, which has become a symbol of the French Republic, is accompanied by the face value as well as the inscription RF for République Française (French Republic).

The reverse displays the nominal value of 2 francs inscribed within a wreath of plant branches, along with the date 1914.

This coin is struck in 835? silver, corresponding to an alloy composed of 83.5% silver and 16.5% other metals. It has a weight of 10 grams and a diameter of 27 millimetres, standardised dimensions for this type of coin.

The year 1914 carries a particular historical significance, coinciding with the outbreak of World War I. This year marks a turning point in French monetary circulation, as silver coins were progressively hoarded by the population, making certain examples of this issue relatively sought after depending on their condition. The presence of the letter C for Castelsarrasin distinguishes this strike from examples produced by other mints in the same year.