50 Centimes with 'LIBRE'

Emitent French Cameroon (1916-1960)
Rok 1943
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nominał 50 Centimes (0.50)
Waluta Franc (1922-1945)
Skład Bronze
Waga 2.7 g
Średnica 20 mm
Grubość
Kształt Round
Technika Milled
Orientacja Coin alignment ↑↓
Rytownik(zy) Coert Laurens Steynberg
W obiegu do
Źródło(a) KM#6
Opis awersu Rooster left, monogrammed shield top right
Pismo awersu Latin
Legenda awersu RF C.L.S. CAMEROUN FRANÇAIS LIBRE
(Translation: French Republic Free French Cameroon)
Opis rewersu Cross of Lorraine divides denomination below, date at bottom
Pismo rewersu Latin
Legenda rewersu HONNEUR LIBERTÉ · ÉGALITÉ PATRIE ·FRATERNITÉ· 50 CMES C.L.S. 1943
(Translation: Honor Liberty Equality Country Fraternity)
Krawędź Smooth
Mennica SA
Pretoria, South Africa(1890-1902, 1923-1992)
Nakład 1943 SA - - 4 000 000
ID Numisquare 5046426830
Dodatkowe informacje

Historical Context: The 1943 50 Centimes from French Cameroon is a poignant numismatic artifact of World War II. Issued under Free French authority, this coin signifies Cameroon's pivotal decision in August 1940 to rally against Vichy France, becoming an early supporter of General de Gaulle. The prominent inscription "LIBRE" (Free) on the reverse serves as a powerful political declaration, embodying the spirit of resistance and the fight for liberation. This coinage addressed severe disruption of supply lines, ensuring economic stability in a crucial Free French territory.

Artistry: Reflecting a utilitarian yet symbolically rich French colonial style, the coin's design is distinct. The obverse typically features the denomination and "ETATS AFRICAINS." The reverse is dominated by a fasces, a bundle of rods with an axe, symbolizing unity and strength. Crucially, the "LIBRE" inscription directly beneath the fasces transforms this classical motif into an emblem of Free French defiance, asserting the territory's allegiance to liberty amidst global conflict.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this 20mm, 2.7g coin often exhibits varying strike quality, typical of wartime production. Key high-points for assessing wear include the binding straps and axe head of the fasces, and the raised lettering of "LIBRE" and the denomination. Collectors should examine these areas for sharpness and completeness. Planchet quality can vary, with minor flaws sometimes present. A strong strike will show crisp details, particularly in the fasces lines and bold legends.

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