© PCGS
© PCGS
½ Cent Pattern
1940 year| Silver | 5.55 g | 23.3 mm |
| Issuer | French Indochina |
|---|---|
| Period | Third Republic (1870-1940) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1940 |
| Value | ½ Cent (0.005 ICFP) |
| Currency | Piastre (1880-1952) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 5.55 g |
| Diameter | 23.3 mm |
| Shape | Round with a round hole |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#429451 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
1/2 at the top, CENT at the bottom, olive branch on the right and RF on the left; in the exergue (date).
Script: Latin
Engraver: Edmond-Émile Lindauer
Edge
Plain
Interesting fact
The Pattern ½ Cent coin from French Indochina was designed by the French sculptor and engraver, Auguste C. Patey. Patey was a renowned artist who also designed several other coins for France and its colonies during the early 20th century. The coin's design features a stylized portrait of a young woman representing the French colony of Indochina, surrounded by rice stalks and the French motto "Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité" (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity). The coin's obverse side bears the inscription "Indochine Française" (French Indochina) and the date "1940." This coin is particularly interesting because it was minted during a time of great turmoil in French Indochina. In 1940, the colony was occupied by Japanese forces, who had invaded Indochina in September 1940. The coin's mintage was likely intended to be used as a symbol of French resistance and solidarity during this difficult period. Today, the Pattern ½ Cent coin is a rare and highly sought-after collector's item, with only a few examples known to exist in mint condition.
