Vichy France 1943 2 Francs Aluminum Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official mint of the French State (État Français/Vichy Regime).
Pattern: Vichy Regime Oak Leaf Design, 1943 issue.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official mint of the French State (État Français/Vichy Regime).
Material
Aluminum (Lightweight metal used due to silver scarcity during WWII occupation); 1.30 grams.
Dimensions
Diameter: 27 mm; Weight: 1.3 grams; Thickness: 2.1 mm.
Description
This 2 Francs piece represents a dark chapter in French history. Issued by the French State (Vichy) under Marshal Philippe Pétain, the coin replaced the Republican 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' with the conservative triad 'Travail, Famille, Patrie' (Work, Family, Fatherland). It is a lightweight artifact of a wartime economy where precious metals were confiscated for the war effort.
Key Features
Central '2' over oak leaves; Vichy 'Francisque' axe on obverse; aluminum composition; '1943' date.
Material & Composition
Aluminum (Lightweight metal used due to silver scarcity during WWII occupation); 1.30 grams.
Finish & Decoration
Matte circulation finish; Obverse features the Francisque (double-headed axe) flanked by oak leaves; Reverse features the denomination '2 FRANCS' and the Vichy motto 'TRAVAIL, FAMILLE, PATRIE'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark for Paris and a wing for the Chief Engraver Lucien Bazor.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/die-struck by the Paris Mint on an aluminum planchet.
Functional Features
Standard currency circulating coinage; simple reeded or smooth edge depending on die variant.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item).
Craftsmanship Details
Standard industrial coinage quality; Lucien Bazor design showing crisp lettering despite the cheapness of the metal.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and spacing for the Paris Mint; correct alignment of the motto; appropriate wear for 80-year-old aluminum.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint; reflecting wartime economy and material shortages.
Era & Period
World War II Era (Vichy France/German Occupation 1940-1944).
Age Estimate
Dated 1943, produced during the height of the German occupation of France.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the collaborationist Vichy government; it reflects the stripping of Republican values during the Nazi occupation of Europe.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Significant surface scratches and rim dings visible. Aluminum is a soft metal and shows wear easily; visible tarnish and darkening (oxidation).
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $5.00 USD. These were minted in high quantities (over 50 million) and are common today, though historically interesting.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule; do not clean with acids as aluminum reacts poorly and can become permanently pitted.
Similar Pieces
1943 1 Franc Aluminum (smaller), 1943 50 Centimes Aluminum; pre-war silver 2 Francs (Sower design) which this coin replaced.
Interesting Facts
The 'Francisque' symbol on the other side was the personal emblem of Marshal Pétain and was used as an official state symbol only during this 4-year period.