Catalog
| Issuer | French West Africa |
|---|---|
| Year | 1944 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 50 Centimes (0.50) |
| Currency | Franc (1895-1944) |
| Composition | Nickel brass (79% Copper, 20% Zinc, 1% Nickel) |
| Weight | 2 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | 1.1 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Pierre-Alexandre Morlon |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#1, Lec#1, Schön#1 |
| Obverse description | Marianne`s head left wearing a phrygian cap decorated with a composite wreath made of olive tree leaves, oak and wheat. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPVBLIQUE FRANÇAISE (Translation: French Republic) |
| Reverse description | Value encompassed on either side by Cornucopia (or horn of plenty, overflowing with produce, flowers or nuts). |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
AFRIQUE OCCIDENTALE FRANÇAISE 50 CENTIMES 1944 (Translation: French Equatorial Africa) |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1944 - - 10 000 000 1944 - Proof - |
| Numisquare ID | 1726291620 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1944 50 Centimes coin from French West Africa (AOF) emerged during World War II, issued under the Free French government. This coinage signified Allied-aligned territories' economic autonomy and resistance against the Vichy regime. Following the 1942 Allied landings in North Africa, AOF sided with the Free French, making this coin critical for maintaining commerce and asserting sovereignty in a region vital to the Allied war effort, amidst disruption and scarcity.
Artistry: This 50 Centimes coin (KM#1) reflects a utilitarian stylistic school, characteristic of wartime colonial issues. An individual engraver is not typically attributed; the design emphasizes clarity and legibility. The obverse prominently displays the denomination, issuer "AFRIQUE OCCIDENTALE FRANÇAISE," and year. The reverse typically features a simple motif or further denomination details, ensuring easy recognition. Its robust simplicity was well-suited for mass production under challenging conditions, ensuring durability and widespread acceptance.
Technical/Grading: Struck in nickel brass (79% copper, 20% zinc, 1% nickel) at 2 grams and 18 millimeters, this coin’s alloy choice was practical for wartime metal constraints. Key high-points for grading include the raised lettering, rim, and any central design elements. Collectors should examine these areas for full strike and minimal wear. Due to wartime production, strike quality can vary, with some examples exhibiting minor weakness in peripheral legends or slight planchet imperfections. A strong, even strike with sharp details and an intact rim is highly desirable.