© CGB
© CGB
20 centimes Etat Français Essai en fer
| Iron | 3.5 g | 24 mm |
| Issuer | France |
|---|---|
| Period | French State (1940-1944) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Years | 1941-1944 |
| Value | 20 Centimes (0.20) |
| Currency | Franc (1795-1959) |
| Composition | Iron |
| Weight | 3.5 g |
| Diameter | 24 mm |
| Shape | Round with a round hole |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#211260 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 37% |
Reverse
Script: Latin
Lettering:
20
CENTIMES
1942
ESSAI
Interesting fact
This coin was designed by the French sculptor and engraver, Auguste C. L. Pétel, who was known for his work on various French coins and medals during the early 20th century. Pétel's design for the Pattern 20 centimes Etat Français features a stylized portrait of a young woman representing France, surrounded by a wreath of olive branches and the motto "Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité" (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) inscribed at the bottom. The coin's design was meant to symbolize France's commitment to the values of the French Revolution, and it was intended to be used as a circulating coin during World War II. However, due to the war, the coin was never officially released and only a small number of pattern coins were produced, making it a highly sought-after collector's item among numismatists today.
