1 Franc (Piedfort with Essai) 1897 front 1 Franc (Piedfort with Essai) 1897 back
1 Franc (Piedfort with Essai) 1897 photo
© Heritage Auctions

1 Franc Piedfort with Essai

1897 year
Copper-nickel - 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Martinique (Overseas France)
Type
Pattern
Year
1897
Value
1 Franc
Currency
Franc (1795-1959)
Composition
Copper-nickel
Diameter
26 mm
Thickness
3.64 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#67423
Rarity index
92%

Reverse

Value and date within wreath.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
CONTRE-VALEUR DÉPOSÉE AU TRÉSOR
BON POUR 1 FRANC
1897
A. BORREL

Translation: Good for 1 Franc

Engraver: Alfred Borrel

Comment

Note: double thickness.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Pattern 1 Franc (Piedfort with Essai) 1897 from Martinique (Overseas France) made of Copper-nickel is that it features a unique design that was not ultimately adopted for circulation. The coin's obverse features a portrait of a young woman representing the Republic of France, while the reverse depicts a stylized image of a palm tree and the coat of arms of Martinique. The coin's design was intended to symbolize the island's connection to France and its status as an overseas territory. However, the design was ultimately rejected in favor of a more traditional design featuring the French Republic's symbols, and the Pattern 1 Franc (Piedfort with Essai) 1897 remains a rare and interesting collector's item.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
1897  - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for 1 Franc (Piedfort with Essai) 1897 coin.