5 Centimes - Union Commerciale et Industrielle - Caen [14]

Historical Context: Issued by the Commune of Caen in 1921, this 5 Centimes token reflects the widespread economic challenges faced by France in the aftermath of World War I. During the French Third Republic, a national coin shortage, exacerbated by hoarding and the high cost of metal, led numerous municipalities and commercial entities to issue their own 'monnaie de nécessité' (necessity coinage). The 'Union Commerciale et Industrielle' of Caen, a local trade association, played a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of small transactions, addressing the scarcity of official fractional currency within the local economy.

Artistry: The design of this aluminium token, while primarily functional, embodies the utilitarian aesthetic common to French necessity coinage of the period. While the specific engraver remains largely unrecorded, the stylistic school leans towards a practical, legible presentation rather than elaborate artistic flourishes. The obverse typically features the issuing authority, 'Union Commerciale et Industrielle - Caen,' alongside the denomination, while the reverse often displays a simple numerical value or a civic emblem. Its directness served to ensure immediate recognition and trust in a time of monetary uncertainty.

Technical/Grading: Struck in lightweight aluminium, this 19mm token is inherently prone to wear and surface abrasions. Key high-points for grading include the raised lettering of the issuer's name and the numerical denomination, where flattening or loss of definition would significantly impact its condition. The soft nature of aluminium also makes these pieces susceptible to nicks, bends, and environmental corrosion. A well-struck example will exhibit sharp details and a relatively clean, unmarred surface, retaining its original lustre, though often these circulated heavily.