25 Centimes - Chambre de Commerce de Cholet 49

Historical Context: During the tumultuous First World War (1914-1918), France faced acute metallic currency shortages due to widespread hoarding and economic disruption. This compelled local authorities, such as the Commune of Cholet, in the Maine-et-Loire department, to issue emergency money, or monnaie de nécessité. This 25 Centimes cardboard piece from 1917 exemplifies how local Chambers of Commerce provided essential provisional currency, ensuring daily commerce continued amidst national crisis and the absence of official coinage.

Artistry: The artistry of this 25 Centimes emergency issue is purely utilitarian, reflecting wartime necessity over traditional numismatic aesthetics. As a printed cardboard piece, its creation involved typography rather than die engraving. The design typically features clear statements of denomination, "25 Centimes," the issuer, "Chambre de Commerce de Cholet," and the year "1917." Ornamentation is minimal, prioritizing legibility and functionality, underscoring the pragmatic approach to currency production during a national emergency.

Technical/Grading: Grading this fragile 25 Centimes cardboard issue focuses on material preservation and print quality. Key assessment points include the sharpness of printed text and graphics, the cardboard's overall integrity, and the absence of significant creasing, tears, or staining. "Strike" quality here pertains to ink clarity and evenness. Specimens often show wear like softened corners, folds, or faded ink from circulation. A well-preserved example exhibits crisp edges, vibrant printing, and an intact surface free from major damage.