Catalog
| Issuer | Central African Republic |
|---|---|
| Year | 1985 |
| Type | Coin pattern |
| Value | 500 Francs CFA |
| Currency | CFA Franc (Bank of Central African States, 1973-date) |
| Composition | Copper-nickel |
| Weight | 11 g |
| Diameter | 30 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#E6 |
| Obverse description | Native woman`s head half left |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ESSAI BANQUE DES ETATS DE L`AFRIQUE CENTRALE (Translation: Pattern Bank of Central African States) |
| Reverse description | Plant divides denomination and date |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
REPUBLIQUE CENTRAFRICAINE 500 FRANCS 1985 (Translation: Central African republic 500 Francs 1985) |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint |
Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date) |
| Mintage |
1985 - - 1 700 |
| Numisquare ID | 7259110910 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1985 500 Francs CFA Essai from the Central African Republic emerged during a period of political and economic flux under President André Kolingba. As an "Essai," this trial strike was not for general circulation, signifying a potential exploration of new coinage designs or denominations within the CEMAC monetary zone. Its existence points to monetary deliberation, perhaps an attempt to introduce a higher-value circulation coin, ultimately not adopted. Such pieces are invaluable historical artifacts, revealing unfulfilled monetary ambitions.
Artistry: While specific engraver details are often unrecorded, the design would likely adhere to European mint styles contracted by Francophone African nations. The obverse would feature the national identity