5 Centimes Bougie Chamber of Commerce, Straight '5' and Small 'C'

Historical Context: This 1915 5 Centimes piece from the Bougie Chamber of Commerce represents a pivotal example of French colonial necessity coinage during World War I. Bougie (modern-day Béjaïa), a significant port in French Algeria, faced severe shortages of official French metallic currency as the metropolitan power diverted resources to the war effort. To maintain local commerce, the Chamber of Commerce, like many municipal and regional bodies across the French Empire, issued emergency tokens (monnaie de nécessité). The use of aluminium, a lightweight and readily available metal, reflects the wartime constraints and the urgent need for a circulating medium distinct from the more valuable bronze or nickel issues.

Artistry: The design of this 5 Centimes coin, typical of wartime necessity issues, prioritizes clarity and function over elaborate artistry. Specific engravers for such local colonial emergency coinage are rarely documented, and this Bougie issue bears no known signature. The stylistic approach is utilitarian, focusing on the legible display of the denomination, issuer (Bougie Chambre de Commerce), and date. The defining characteristics of the "straight '5'" and "small 'C'" indicate a specific die variety, reflecting minor variations in the production process rather than a distinct artistic school.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, collectors should meticulously examine the specific features defining this variety: the "straight '5'" numeral and the "small 'C'" within "Centimes," ensuring these details are crisp and fully struck. As an aluminium issue, the coin is highly susceptible to nicks, scratches, and surface abrasions. Key high points prone to wear include the lettering in "BOUGIE," "CHAMBRE DE COMMERCE," and "CENTIMES," as well as the date "1915." Preservation of original, often satiny, surfaces, free from significant oxidation or post-mint damage, is paramount for higher grades.