1/2 Franc

Uitgever Rwanda
Jaar 1970
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1/2 Franc (1/2 RWF)
Valuta Franc (1964-date)
Samenstelling Aluminium-magnesium (96.9-96.1% Aluminium, 3.9-3.1% Magnesium)
Gewicht 0.7 g
Diameter 16.00 mm
Dikte 1.63 mm
Vorm Round
Techniek Milled
Oriëntatie Coin alignment ↑↓
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) KM#9, Schön#9
Beschrijving voorzijde Denomination at centre.
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde BANQUE · NATIONALE · DU · RWANDA 1/2 FRANC · 1970 ·
(Translation: National Bank of Rwanda.)
Beschrijving keerzijde Value in Kinyarwanda in circle.
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde BANKI · NASIYONALI · YU · RWANDA URUMIYA · 1970 ·
(Translation: National Bank of Rwanda. Half.)
Rand Smooth
Muntplaats
Oplage 1970 - - 5 000 000
Numisquare-ID 2364664470
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: The 1970 1/2 Franc coin was issued by the Republic of Rwanda during the presidency of Grégoire Kayibanda, its first head of state. This period marked Rwanda's early efforts to establish national identity and economic sovereignty, transitioning from colonial monetary systems. As a low denomination, the 1/2 Franc was crucial for everyday transactions, reflecting the nascent economy and symbolizing the new republic's autonomy.

Artistry: The design of the 1970 1/2 Franc, likely executed by the mint's designers, reflects a post-colonial, utilitarian aesthetic with nationalistic undertones. The obverse displays the denomination "1/2 FRANC" and the year "1970" encircled by the nation's name, "REPUBLIQUE RWANDAISE." The reverse features a stylized coffee plant branch, a significant agricultural export, accompanied by the national motto "LIBERTE COOPERATION PROGRES." This imagery underscores Rwanda's economic aspirations and national values.

Technical/Grading: Struck in a lightweight aluminium-magnesium alloy (0.7 g, 16.00 mm), the 1970 1/2 Franc often exhibits strike qualities inherent to this soft metal. High-points for evaluation include the delicate details of the coffee berries and leaves on the reverse, and the serifs of the lettering and numerals on the obverse. Due to the alloy's malleability and high-speed production for low denominations, even uncirculated examples may show minor strike weakness, particularly in finer details. The soft metal is also highly susceptible to bag marks and contact abrasions, impacting grade significantly.

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