1000 Francs CFA Houdini water torture cell

The BEAC issues commemorative silver under a licensing arrangement that allows private minting companies — typically European — to produce themed pieces bearing the authority of member states like Cameroon or Chad. The Houdini water torture cell escape, first performed publicly in 1912, has become a recurring subject for novelty bullion programs in recent years. These pieces are legal tender in name only; none enter circulation, and the issuing central bank exercises minimal creative control over the subject matter.