France 2 Francs Chambres de Commerce

Country of Origin: France, issued by the Chambers of Commerce

Year of Issue: 1923

Denomination: 2 Francs

Composition: Aluminum-Bronze (91% Copper, 9% Aluminum)

France 2 Francs Chambres de Commerce

Brief Description

A golden-hued French token coin issued for commerce after WWI, featuring Mercury seated on the obverse.

Historical Significance

Following World War I, France experienced a severe shortage of silver coinage as the metal was hoarded or melted. To provide circulating change, the French Chambers of Commerce were authorized to issue these 'Jetons' (tokens) to replace the state's silver 2 franc coins. They are a classic example of emergency fiat currency from the interwar period.

Estimated Value

$1-$3 in well-circulated condition; $15-$40 in Mint State (uncirculated)

Care Instructions

Avoid cleaning or polishing, as this ruins numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent the aluminum-bronze from developing dark environmental 'spotting' or corrosion.

Mint Mark

Cornucopia (Paris Mint), though the coin was issued specifically for the Chambers of Commerce.

Mintage & Rarity

Common; approximately 47,402,689 were minted in 1923.

Weight & Diameter

8.0g, 27.0mm

Edge

Plain

Apparent Grade

Fine to Very Fine. The coin shows significant surface wear, especially on the high points of Mercury and the lettering, but the legends and main devices remain fully legible.

Obverse (Front)

Seated figure of Mercury (god of commerce) holding a caduceus, leaning on a stone block inscribed with DOMARD. INVIC. The legend 'COMMERCE INDUSTRIE' surrounds the figure. Year 1923 is visible on the right.

Reverse (Back)

The central text 'BON POUR 2 FRANCS' inside a circle. The legend around the edge reads 'CHAMBRES · DE · COMMERCE · DE · FRANCE'.

What Drives This Coin's Value

Condition is the primary factor. Because tens of millions were produced, only coins in exceptional, lustrous uncirculated condition command high prices. Dark toning or corrosion significantly reduces value.

Similar Coins

The 50 centimes and 1 Franc coins of the same 'Commerce Industrie' design, which are smaller in diameter (18mm and 23mm respectively).

Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags

Check for a clear, sharp strike and the correct weight. Forgeries of this exact date are rare, but 'struck-on-wrong-planchet' errors are sometimes faked.

Notable Varieties & Errors

There are no major recognized die varieties for the 1923 2 Francs, though die cracks are common.

Created At: 2026-04-22T09:41:49.059497