France · 1925
French Indochina 1 Piastre, 1925
A silver trade dollar of French Indochina, struck in Paris for circulation across Southeast Asia.
- Country / Issuer
- France
- Date
- 1925
- Category
- Modern coinage
- Inventory reference
- AC-CO-005
About this object
The piastre was designed to compete with the Mexican dollar in Asian trade. Its silver content, weight and diameter were carefully calibrated, and the coin circulated from Saigon to Hong Kong. The obverse carries the Republic seated, with a fasces and laurel; the reverse names the colony and its commercial purpose.
This example shows light, even wear and a pleasant grey tone. The two faces are documented together, with the full rims visible.
Historical context
French Indochina's currency linked the colonial economy to the silver markets of Asia. The 1925 issue belongs to a period of monetary reform, when the piastre's silver content was adjusted and new designs were introduced. Trade coins like this one are among the clearest material records of global commerce between Europe and Asia.
Held in a private collection. Available for scholarly consultation by appointment.
Specifications
French Indochina 1 Piastre, 1925
- Country / Issuer
- France
- Date
- 1925
- Category
- Modern coinage
- Rarity
- Uncommon
- Condition / Grade
- Extremely fine
- Inventory reference
- AC-CO-005
- Denomination
- 1 Piastre
- Mint
- Paris
- Mint mark
- Thunderbolt
- Composition
- Silver 900‰
- Weight
- 27 g
- Diameter
- 39 mm
- Thickness
- 2.7 mm
- Edge
- Reeded
- Orientation
- ↑
- Obverse
- Republic seated left, holding fasces and laurel branch.
- Reverse
- Denomination and trade inscription within a wreath.
- Catalog references
- KM 5a; Lec. 306
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