Catalogue
| Émetteur | Dahomey (1960-1975) |
|---|---|
| Année | 1971 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Valeur | 10 000 Francs CFA (10 000) |
| Devise | CFA Franc (1945-date) |
| Composition | Gold (.900) |
| Poids | 35.55 g |
| Diamètre | 41 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | KM#8, Schön#7 |
| Description de l’avers | Coat of arms of Dahomey divides country name, date above, denomination below and fineness near the rim. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Latin |
| Légende de l’avers | 1971 REPUBLIQUE DU DAHOMEY 1er Août 1970 10ème Anniversaire FRATERNITE JUSTICE TRAVAIL 10.000 FRANCS CFA 900 |
| Description du revers | Four hippos in and next to the water. |
| Écriture du revers | Latin |
| Légende du revers | HIPPOPOTAME |
| Tranche | Reeded |
| Atelier |
1 AR Numismatica Italiana, Arezzo,Italy (1926-date) |
| Tirage |
1971 - Hallmark `900` below `CFA`, Proof - 1971 - Hallmark `900` lower right of `FRANCS`, Proof - 470 1971 1 AR - Hallmark `900` and mint mark right of `CFA`, Proof - |
| ID Numisquare | 4194060820 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: The 1971 Dahomey 10 000 Francs Independence gold coin emerges from a pivotal period. Dahomey, independent from France since 1960, experienced political flux. By 1971, a Presidential Council, headed by Hubert Maga, governed. This substantial gold issue served as a potent symbol of national sovereignty and economic ambition, commemorating the eleventh anniversary of independence and projecting an image of stability and prosperity for the nascent West African state.
Artistry: The design, often uncredited, reflects contemporary European medallic art, likely executed by a prominent European mint. The obverse commonly features the national emblem or a stylized representation of Dahomey, embodying its newfound identity. The reverse displays the denomination and year, frequently accompanied by allegorical figures symbolizing liberty, progress, or the nation's geographic outline, rendered with a blend of classical and modern aesthetics.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine gold, weighing 35.55 grams and measuring 41 millimeters, this coin represents a significant numismatic endeavor. Its substantial size and precious metal content typically result in an exceptional strike, characterized by full details and robust luster. Key high-points for wear or strike weakness commonly include the highest relief elements of any allegorical figures (e.g., hair, facial features), or the raised contours of a national map or emblem. Mint State examples should exhibit strong cartwheel luster and sharp definition.