France 2 Francs (Morlon Type)

France, Fourth Republic · 1947

A lightweight aluminum coin featuring a profile of Marianne on the obverse and two cornucopias on the reverse.

Country: France, Fourth Republic
Year: 1947
Denomination: 2 Francs
Metal: Aluminum

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified April 22, 2026More france, fourth republic coins →

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Overview

A lightweight aluminum coin featuring a profile of Marianne on the obverse and two cornucopias on the reverse.

Historical significance

Minted during the transition to the Fourth Republic after WWII, these aluminum coins reflect the post-war economic atmosphere and the inflation that necessitated cheaper metal compositions.

Obverse (front)

Left-facing profile of Marianne wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with a wreath. Text: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'. Designed by Pierre-Alexandre Morlon.

Reverse (back)

Central denomination '2 FRANCS' flanked by two cornucopias (horns of plenty). Motto: 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE'. Year '1947' at the bottom.

Estimated value

$0.50 - $2.00 in circulated condition; $5.00 - $15.00 in high uncirculated (MS) grades

What drives this coin's value

Condition is the primary factor. Because they were minted in massive quantities in aluminum, only coins in pristine 'Mint State' carry a premium.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine. There is noticeable wear on the high points of Marianne's hair and the cornucopias, and some surface spotting/discoloration (toning or light corrosion).

Mintage & rarity

Common; over 160 million were minted in 1947 (combined across mint types).

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Aluminum coins are rarely counterfeited due to low value, but check for correct weight (approx 2.2g) and crispness of the 'Morlon' signature below the bust.

Notable varieties & errors

Look for the version without a mint mark (Paris) vs the 'B' mint mark (Beaumont-le-Roger).

Similar coins

Often confused with the smaller 1 Franc or the larger 5 Francs of the same 'Morlon' design, or the earlier bronze/aluminum-bronze versions of the 2 Francs minted between 1920-1941.

Care & preservation

Avoid cleaning as aluminum is soft and reacts easily to chemicals and abrasives. Store in a dry, PVC-free environment to prevent 'aluminum rot' or surface oxidation.