Catalog
| Issuer | Togo |
|---|---|
| Year | 1977 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | |
| Currency | CFA franc (1958-date) |
| Composition | Copper (piedfort) |
| Weight | 98.72 g |
| Diameter | 45 mm |
| Thickness | 8 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Josep Ramisa i Vallcorba |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#Pn3 |
| Obverse description | Coat of arms of Togo, surrounded by a mintmark (bell) to the left, the year in a small dot to the right, a mintmark between the lion’s paws and the denomination below. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPUBLIQUE TOGOLAISE TRAVAIL LIBERTE PATRIE RT 77 23 B 10000 FRANCS CFA (Translation: Togolese Republic Labour Freedom Homeland) |
| Reverse description | Bust of General facing left, engravers initials to right of bust, surrounded by the legend and date. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
GENERAL GNASSINGBE EYADEMA PRESIDENT 49g Ag tit 0`925 JRV . 1977 . (Translation: 49g silver 0.925) |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1977 - Proof, bell, 23 B, piedfort - 5 |
| Numisquare ID | 1636313650 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1977, this 10,000 Francs CFA coin commemorates General Gnassingbe Eyadema, who seized power in Togo in 1967. His rule, extending until 2005, was marked by a one-party state and a pervasive personality cult. This high-denomination issue reflects Eyadema’s consolidation of power and nation-building during Togo’s post-colonial era. Such coins served as powerful propaganda, projecting stability and strength under his authoritarian governance.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains uncredited, the coin’s aesthetic likely originates from a prominent European mint, such as the Monnaie de Paris, a frequent producer for Francophone African nations. The stylistic school is firmly rooted in academic realism, common for official state portraiture. The obverse would feature a dignified, often idealized, effigy of General Eyadema, emphasizing his authority. The reverse typically incorporated national emblems or symbolic representations of Togolese progress, rendered with clear, classical lines.
Technical/Grading: Cataloged as KM#Pn3, this coin is a distinctive piedfort, struck on an exceptionally thick copper planchet weighing 98.72 grams and measuring 45 millimeters. The piedfort designation indicates a special issue, likely a proof or presentation piece. Achieving a full, sharp strike on such a large copper blank requires considerable pressure, resulting in well-defined details, particularly on the highest points of Eyadema’s portrait (hair, cheekbone) and any intricate reverse motifs. Collectors should seek crispness in relief and pristine fields, often mirrored.