10 Céntimos Molins de Llobregat

Historical Context: The 10 Céntimos Molins de Llobregat, issued in 1937, represents a poignant artifact from the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Molins de Llobregat, a municipality within the Republican-held territory of Catalonia, resorted to issuing emergency currency (known as *moneda de necesidad*) due to the severe metal shortages and economic disruption wrought by the conflict. The use of cardboard as a substrate underscores the extreme wartime austerity and the urgent need for a circulating medium when traditional coinage was unavailable or hoarded. These local issues were crucial for maintaining daily commerce and civic functions in a decentralized wartime economy.

Artistry: Attribution of a specific engraver or artistic school for municipal emergency issues of the Spanish Civil War, particularly those struck on cardboard, is exceedingly rare. These pieces were primarily utilitarian, designed for immediate functionality rather than aesthetic grandeur. The designs typically featured the municipal coat of arms, the denomination, and the date, often executed by local printers or graphic designers with an emphasis on clarity and legibility. Signatures are virtually unknown for this specific issuer or type, reflecting the urgent, ad-hoc nature of their production under duress.

Technical/Grading: Grading for cardboard emergency currency like the Molins de Llobregat 10 Céntimos focuses heavily on the preservation of the fragile substrate. Key high-points for evaluation include the integrity of the cardboard disk itself: absence of tears, significant folds, creases, or heavy edge wear. The crispness and clarity of the printed design, free from smudging, fading, or ink bleed, are paramount. Discoloration, staining, and evidence of repairs or mounting (e.g., glue residue, pinholes not part of original issue) significantly detract from value. A well-preserved, uncirculated example with sharp corners and vibrant print is exceptionally rare.