5 Centimes - Chambre Syndicale des Commerçants - Perpignan [66] Aluminium

Historical Context: This 5 Centimes token, issued by the Chambre Syndicale des Commerçants of Perpignan (Pyrénées-Orientales, France) from 1917 to 1924, is a prime example of *monnaie de nécessité* during and immediately post-World War I. The conflict caused severe national metallic currency shortages, particularly small change, as base metals were diverted and hoarding occurred. Local chambers of commerce, municipalities, and private entities issued emergency tokens, often in aluminium, to maintain local commerce amidst acute national currency scarcity and economic instability.

Artistry: Consistent with *monnaie de nécessité* from this era, the artistic execution prioritizes functional clarity over elaborate aesthetics. Specific engraver signatures are typically absent for these local emergency tokens, and none are known for this Perpignan issue. The style is utilitarian, focusing on clear legibility of the issuer's name, denomination, and often incorporating simple civic or commercial emblems, reflecting its pragmatic emergency circulation rather than high artistic ambition.

Technical/Grading: Given its aluminium composition, surface preservation is paramount. High-points for grading include the absence of nicks, scratches, and common pitting or corrosion associated with this soft, reactive metal. Examine the sharpness of lettering for "Chambre Syndicale des Commerçants" and "Perpignan," plus any central design elements. A strong, even strike, free from planchet imperfections common in emergency issues, and a satiny original surface are highly desirable attributes for this 0.7g, 21mm token.