Martinique 1897 franc
This type and an accompanying fifty centimes are the only issues recorded for Martinique in the nineteenth century. Both are scarce and expensive. The type was reissued in 1922. This specimen was lot 32448 in Heritage sale 3032 (Chicago, April 2014), where it sold for $5,875. The catalog description[1] noted, "French Colony 1 Franc 1897, Paris mint, MS66 NGC. Gem Brilliant Uncirculated, which is a most unusual grade for this type depicting Napoleon's first wife. Josephine, who was born in Martinique." The identification of the female figure with Josephine is dubious as the model is wearing a gown and jewelry typical of the 1890's.
Recorded mintage: 300,000.
Specification: copper-nickel per the SCWC, more likely aluminum bronze; 26 mm diameter.
Catelog reference: KM 41.
- Michael, Thomas, and Tracy L. Schmidt, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1901-2000, 47th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2019.
- [1]Bierrenbach, Cristiano, Warren Tucker and David Michaels, Heritage World and Ancient Coins Auction 3032, Dallas, TX: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2014.
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