Catalog
| Issuer | Western African States |
|---|---|
| Year | 1972 |
| Type | Coin pattern |
| Value | 500 Francs CFA |
| Currency | CFA franc (1958-date) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Raymond Joly |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#E7 |
| Obverse description | Sawfish |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
BANQUE CENTRALE DES ETATS D`AFRIQUE DE L`OUEST 1 NOVEMBRE 1962 1 NOVEMBRE 1972 ESSAI RJ (Translation: Central Bank of [the] West African States 1st November 1962 1st November 1972 Trial) |
| Reverse description | Denomination; coats of arms |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
HAUTE-VOLTA MAURITANIE NIGER SENEGAL TOGO COTE D`IVOIRE DAHOMEY 500 FRANCS 1972 (Translation: Upper Volta Mauritania Niger Senegal Togo Ivory Coast Dahomey) |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date) |
| Mintage |
1972 - - 1 300 |
| Numisquare ID | 2577795500 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1972, this 500 Francs CFA Essai from the Western African States signifies a pivotal post-colonial era. While individual nations gained independence, the CFA Franc Monetary Union represented a continued commitment to regional economic integration and monetary stability, linked to the French franc. This Essai, a test strike, reflects an exploration of new monetary expressions and the assertion of a collective identity for member states within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA).
Artistry: The specific engraver for this Essai (KM#E7) is unrecorded, but the design reflects the prevailing numismatic aesthetic, often by Monnaie de Paris artists. Stylistically, it likely blends classical allegorical representations, such as a symbolic head embodying Union ideals, with motifs of West African agriculture or industry on the reverse. Common elements include local produce or a regional map, emphasizing economic unity. Essais often permitted more intricate designs than standard circulation issues.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine silver (25 grams, 37 mm), this Essai typically exhibits superior strike quality. High-points for grading include intricate details of any allegorical figure's hair/headdress, and delicate textures of agricultural motifs or geographical lines. Essais are often struck with enhanced pressure, yielding a full, sharp strike with crisp legends. Collectors should seek a strong proof-like or matte finish, minimal planchet imperfections, and no wear, as these pieces were not for circulation.