Catalog
| Issuer | Chad |
|---|---|
| Year | 1975-1991 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 100 Francs CFA |
| Currency | CFA franc (Bank of Central African States, 1973-date) |
| Composition | Nickel |
| Weight | 7.0 g |
| Diameter | 25.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Lucien Georges Bazor |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#3, Schön#14 |
| Obverse description | Three Giant Eland facing left |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPUBLIQUE DU TCHAD G.B.L.BAZOR CR (Translation: Republic of the Chad) |
| Reverse description | Denomination and date within circle |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
BANQUE DES ETATS DE L`AFRIQUE CENTRALE 100 FRANCS 1978 (Translation: Bank of the Central African States 100 Francs 1978) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date) |
| Mintage |
1975 - - 5 000 000 1978 - - 1980 - - 1982 - - 1984 - - 1 500 000 1985 - - 2 500 000 1988 - - 1 500 000 1990 - - 1991 - - 200 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 6886608600 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The Chad 100 Francs coin, minted 1975-1991, circulated during an intensely turbulent period of civil wars and political upheaval following independence. Leaders like Félix Malloum and Hissène Habré navigated profound internal strife and external conflicts, including the Chadian-Libyan War. Its continuous issuance, as part of the CFA Franc system (BEAC), was vital for maintaining economic functionality and state legitimacy, providing essential currency for daily transactions amidst challenging nation-building.
Artistry: The coin's design exemplifies the utilitarian, nationally symbolic style typical of post-colonial African coinage, likely produced by the Monnaie de Paris. The engraver for these circulating issues remains uncredited. The obverse prominently displays "REPUBLIQUE DU TCHAD" and "100 FRANCS." The reverse features a stylized antelope head, often an addax, alongside a stalk of millet. This iconic imagery, shared among BEAC member states, symbolizes the region's indigenous wildlife and agricultural heritage.
Technical/Grading: Struck in durable nickel, this 100 Francs coin typically shows a consistent strike. For optimal grading, collectors should examine high-points for wear. On the obverse, critical areas are the raised lettering of "REPUBLIQUE DU TCHAD" and the numerals "100 FRANCS." On the reverse, the fine details of the antelope's horns and muzzle, plus individual grains on the millet stalk, are most susceptible to abrasion. Uncirculated examples should exhibit a pleasing satiny luster; field and bag marks are common due to circulation.