10 Francs Union française Essai

Issuer Togo
Year 1956
Type Coin pattern
Value 10 Francs
Currency Franc (1924-1956)
Composition Aluminium bronze
Weight 5 g
Diameter 23.5 mm
Thickness
Shape Round
Technique Milled
Orientation Coin alignment ↑↓
Engraver(s) Lucien Georges Bazor
In circulation to
Reference(s) KM#E7
Obverse description Marianne wearing phrygian cap.
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE - UNION FRANÇAISE G.B.L. BAZOR 1956
Reverse description Antelope head
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering 10 Fs ESSAI TERRITOIRE DU TOGO
Edge Smooth
Mint Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and
Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date)
Mintage 1956 - - 2 300
Numisquare ID 4330624790
Additional information

Historical Context: The 1956 10 Francs Essai for Togo emerges from a pivotal period in French colonial history. Togo, then a United Nations Trust Territory administered by France, was part of the broader Union française. This era, preceding Togo's independence in 1960, saw France attempting to redefine its relationship with its overseas territories. Essais like this represent proposed monetary instruments intended to solidify the economic and political ties within the Union, even as the tides of decolonization were rapidly shifting.

Artistry: While the specific engraver for this Essai remains uncredited, the design likely originated from the ateliers of the Monnaie de Paris, characteristic of French colonial coinage. The stylistic school typically blended classical allegorical figures, such as Marianne, with symbols representing the specific territory or the broader Union française. The design would feature the denomination, the issuer "Togo," and prominently display the "Union française" legend, reflecting the shared monetary system and political structure.

Technical/Grading: Struck in aluminium bronze, this Essai typically exhibits a strong, precise strike, often superior to regular circulating issues. Key high-points for evaluation would include the intricate details of any effigy's hair or facial features, or the fine lines of agricultural or industrial motifs. The aluminium bronze composition allows for excellent retention of design details and a pleasing luster, crucial for discerning strike quality and minimizing wear on the coin's highest relief areas.

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