Catalog
| Issuer | Chad |
|---|---|
| Year | 1970 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 20 000 Francs (20 000 FCFA) |
| Currency | CFA franc (Central bank of Equatorial African States and Cameroon, 1961-1973) |
| Composition | Gold (.900) |
| Weight | 70.00 g |
| Diameter | 52 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | G. Simon |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#12, Schön#12, Fr#1 |
| Obverse description | Head of Francois Tombalbaye facing left |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | REPUBLIQUE DU TCHAD G. SIMON 1970 FRANÇOIS TOMBALBAYE |
| Reverse description | Arms with supporters, denomination below |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 10eme ANNIVERSAIRE DE L`INDEPENDANCE UNITE TRAVAIL PROGRES 20.000 FRANCS |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date) |
| Mintage |
1970 - Proof - 4 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 2983050650 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1970 20 000 Francs Independence coin from Chad commemorates a decade since its 1960 independence from France. Under President François Tombalbaye, this era marked the nascent stages of nation-building for the Republic of Chad. The issuance of this substantial gold denomination, Fr#1, served as a powerful declaration of sovereignty and an assertion of national identity, symbolizing stability amidst the period's inherent political and economic challenges.
Artistry: While the specific engraver is often undocumented, the design likely originated from European mints, such as the Monnaie de Paris, typical for post-colonial issues. The stylistic school generally blends neoclassical academic principles with national symbolism. The obverse likely features the Chadian national emblem or an allegorical representation of freedom, while the reverse prominently displays the denomination, date, and a motif celebrating independence, signifying a new era of self-governance.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine gold, this impressive coin weighs 70.00 grams and measures 52 millimeters, making it a significant numismatic piece. Given its substantial size and precious metal content, strike quality is generally robust, often exhibiting full detail. High-points for wear and strike analysis typically include the highest elements of any allegorical figures, the central details of the national emblem, or intricate lines within any depicted map. Preservation of the expansive fields is critical for high grades.