1 Franc AOF 1944

In 1944, the 1 Franc coin for French West Africa was struck using zinc planchets, a hasty switch from traditional metals due to wartime supply disruptions that left mints scrambling.

This emergency issue came from the Paris Mint, intended to keep currency flowing in the colonies amid the chaos of occupation. The design was straightforward: Marianne's profile on the obverse, the denomination and "AOF" on the reverse. We don't know the exact mintage figures; records from that period are spotty, likely lost in postwar confusion.

What makes it notable is its role in a broader colonial monetary experiment, bridging prewar standards and the eventual shift to the CFA franc. Some specimens show rough edges from poor quality control, a reminder that not every coin is a masterpiece.

Oh, and if you think it's rare, well, that's what everyone says about their attic finds.