© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
1 Franc Essai
1897 year| Copper-nickel | 8 g | 26 mm |
| Issuer | Martinique (Overseas France) |
|---|---|
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1897 |
| Value | 1 Franc |
| Currency | Franc (1795-1959) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 8 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Thickness | 1.82 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#101496 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Value and incomplete date (1 only) within wreath.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
CONTRE-VALEUR DÉPOSÉE AU TRÉSOR
BON POUR
1 FRANC
1
A. BORREL
Translation: Good for 1 Franc
Engraver: Alfred Borrel
Edge
Reeded
Comment
This "essai" is the same pattern as the circulating coin () at the exception of the edge which is reeded here whereas it is plain on the current coin.Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Pattern 1 Franc (Essai) 1897 from Martinique (Overseas France) made of Copper-nickel weighing 8g is that it features a unique design that was not ultimately adopted for circulation. The coin's obverse side depicts a portrait of a young woman representing the Republic of France, while the reverse side shows a stylized image of a sugar cane plant, which was a major crop in Martinique at the time. The coin's design was created by French artist and engraver, Auguste-Oscar Métallique, and it was produced in limited quantities as a trial or pattern coin, never intended for circulation. This coin is now highly sought after by collectors, not only for its rarity but also for its historical significance as a symbol of Martinique's rich cultural heritage.
