25 Centimes - Chambre de Commerce de Cholet 49

Historical Context: Issued in 1917 by the Commune of Cholet, this 25 Centimes token emerged during the First World War in France, under the Third Republic. As metallic coinage vanished from circulation due to wartime hoarding and metal redirection, local authorities and Chambers of Commerce were compelled to issue emergency currency (monnaie de nécessité). This cardboard issue from Cholet served a critical function, ensuring continuity of daily commerce and facilitating small transactions amidst severe monetary scarcity.

Artistry: The design of this 25 Centimes token is inherently functional, characteristic of wartime emergency issues. While a specific engraver or classical stylistic school is not typically associated with such utilitarian pieces, the aesthetic prioritizes clarity and legibility. The token would feature the issuing authority, "Chambre de Commerce de Cholet 49," prominently alongside the denomination and year. Designs were often stark, reflecting the urgent need for currency rather than elaborate artistic expression.

Technical/Grading: Given its cardboard composition, the "strike" quality refers to the clarity of its printing and the material's condition. High-points for preservation include sharp, untorn edges, minimal creasing, and clear, unfaded ink. Unlike metallic coins, cardboard tokens are extremely vulnerable to environmental damage, wear, and tearing. A well-preserved example of this 35 mm, 0.85 gram piece, referenced as JP#47-2, would exhibit strong paper integrity and crisp printed details, reflecting its fragile nature.