The 10 centime Dupuis coin: a witness to the monetary history
Third French Republic. Even though the year 1916 does not offer any technical specificities for this series struck from 1898 to 1921, it still represents a major historical landmark. That year, in the midst of the First World War, was marked by economic and social disruptions that influenced the use and the perception of this coin.
1916: A turning point in the monetary circulation
In 1916, France is deep into the First World War hardships, a period marked by economic and social disruptions. In this context, the 10 centime Dupuis coin, made of bronze, plays a crucial role in the daily commercial transactions. Small and durable, the coin meets the country’s needs, the latter facing increasing monetary shortages.
The war also imposes new adjustments in the production of metallic coins. For safety reasons, the mints are moved from Paris to Rochefort and Castelsarrasin, while the coin cuts accentuate the shortage of small change, offset by the increasing use of paper money. The 10 centime coin, however, maintains its role as a vital component for the monetary transactions in a country at war, especially for the daily salary.
This coin, designed by the well-known engraver Daniel Dupuis, shows on its obverse Liberty’s bust, wearing a Phrygian cap. On its reverse, the allegory of the French Republic, holding a flag in one hand and an olive tree branch in the other. By her side, a child holds wheat and a hammer. The motto “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity,” the denomination, as well as the year, complete this harmonious design.
Why is the year 1916 so interesting to the collectors?
Even though the 1916 issue does not present any technical specificities, it can still catch the collectors’ attention for multiple reasons:
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The historical context: in 1916, France was in the middle of a world war. To own a coin minted in this year is to own a witness to this era marked by economic and social challenges.
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A long but interesting series: minted from 1898 to 1921 and then demonetize in 1934, the Dupuis series is not rare per se, but the well conserved specimens of 1916 or of other years are still popular among collectors.
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A timeless beauty: the artistic quality of this coin, with its elegant and well-balanced patterns, makes it an elegant miniature work of art.
What is the market value of the 1916 10 centime coin?
The coin’s value depends mainly on its state of conservation. The quality VF (Very Fine) will cost you a reasonable amount of money, but the PRF (Proof) coins can reach a hundred, if not hundreds of euros, depending on the evaluation standards.
If one wishes to have a 1916 10 centime coin assessed or to sell it, it is recommended to consult a numismatic expert. On the NumisCorner website, the expert valuation service and a large selection of thoroughly controlled coins are available.
A coin to collect for its history and its beauty
No matter if you are a numismatic enthusiast or simply curious, the 1916 10 centime Dupuis coin is an excellent choice to enhance one’s collection. It combines an aesthetic design by Daniel Dupuis and a strong symbolic value due to its historical context.
A witness to History and a worthy investment
The 10 centime Dupuis coin, minted between 1898 and 1921, has been issued continuously during the First World War, especially in 1916, a year in which monetary restrictions and the need of accessible cash strengthened its importance in day-to-day exchanges.
Coin France
Dupuis, 10 Centimes, 1916, Paris, MS(60-62), Bronze, KM:843
Even though that year’s issue does not present any technical particular specificity, it is still a witness to its era, marked by the war and the economic changes; it thus embodies a piece of France’s history.
To own one of these coins, in an excellent state of conservation, is a unique opportunity to preserve a fragment of the past while making a wise numismatic investment.
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