Morocco 5 Francs (Empire Chérifien)
Country of Origin: Morocco, French Protectorate
Year of Issue: 1946 (AH 1365)
Denomination: 5 Francs
Composition: Aluminum-Bronze
Brief Description
A gold-colored coin featuring an interlocking six-pointed star (Seal of Solomon) and Arabic script, issued under the French Protectorate of Morocco.
Historical Significance
This coin was issued during the reign of Sultan Mohammed V while Morocco was a French Protectorate. It represents the 'Empire Chérifien', a traditional name for the Moroccan Sultanate.
Estimated Value
$1-$3 in circulated condition, $5-$15 in Mint State (MS-63+)
Care Instructions
Do not clean with chemicals or abrasives. Aluminum-bronze can develop green corrosion (verdigris) if kept in damp environments; store in a dry place using PVC-free flips or capsules.
Mint Mark
None (typically minted in Paris)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; approximately 20,000,000 minted.
Weight & Diameter
12.0g and 31.0mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine; shows significant surface wear, oxidation/patina, and some green verdigris spots on the lower right of the obverse.
Obverse (Front)
Denomination '5 FRANCS' within a six-pointed star (Seal of Solomon). Surrounded by 'MAROC' at the top and Arabic inscriptions at the bottom.
Reverse (Back)
Central circle containing the Hejira date (١٣٦٥ - 1365) inside a six-pointed star. Surrounded by 'EMPIRE CHERIFIEN' at the top and Arabic inscriptions at the bottom.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. Because they were minted in high numbers, only coins in high uncirculated grades or with exceptional luster command a premium.
Similar Coins
The 10 and 20 Francs of the same series have identical designs but are larger. Often confused with older Moroccan silver 'Rial' coinage which shared the Seal of Solomon motif.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for correct diameter (31mm) and weight. Counterfeits are rare for this low-value base metal coin, but watch for 'cast' textures or blurred lettering.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties widely recognized for this specific year.
Created At: 2026-06-16T23:43:39.263576