10 francs 1916 — France ( Pick: 73 )
Banknote description
The front side design features a woman and includes signature titles: LE CAISSIER PRINCIPAL and LE SECRÉTAIRE GÉNÉRAL. The signatures on the note are by J. Laferriere and E. Picard, valid from March 1, 1916, to November 15, 1918.
This note has a color scheme of blue and cream. Additional recorded details include multiple signatures, indicating changes in the issuing authority over time. The French government produced various denominations during World War I, reflecting the economic needs of the period.
Specifications
- Signed by
- J. Laferriere and E. Picard
- Date of issue
- 3.1.1916-15.11.1918
- Colour
- Blue and cream
- Pick catalog
- 73
About this banknote
The Banque de France issued the 10 francs "Minerva" banknote (Pick 73) starting on January 3, 1916. This series was introduced during World War I to address the increased demand for currency. The initial issues bore the signatures of J. Laferrière as "Le Caissier Principal" and E. Picard as "Le Secrétaire Général," with this signature combination used until November 15, 1918.
The obverse features a portrait of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, depicted in a medallion on the left side. The reverse shows a seated farm woman holding a sickle, leaning on a bushel, and surrounded by a garland of vine leaves and grapes. This banknote measures 138 x 88 mm and was printed in blue and cream colors. It remained in circulation until its demonetization on January 1, 1963.
