1947 France 2 Francs Aluminum Coin (Morlon Type)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · N/A (Aluminum alloy). The silver-grey color is characteristic of aged industrial aluminum rather than white gold or silver.
Purity: 0% (Non-gold). This item is composed of 91% Aluminum and 9% Magnesium. It is not gold, gold-plated, or gold-filled.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (Non-gold). This item is composed of 91% Aluminum and 9% Magnesium. It is not gold, gold-plated, or gold-filled.
Gold Type
N/A (Aluminum alloy). The silver-grey color is characteristic of aged industrial aluminum rather than white gold or silver.
Weight
2.2 grams (Standard weight for this 1947 issue).
Description
This is a French 2 Francs coin issued shortly after WWII. While it has a metallic sheen, it is made of lightweight aluminum, a metal chosen due to the post-war scarcity of copper and nickel. The reverse features the French national motto and festive cornucopias filled with fruit, symbolizing abundance.
Key Features
Morlon design; Aluminum-Magnesium composition; Cornucopia and Wing privy marks; Large '2' denomination.
Color & Finish
Dull silver-grey metallic color with a matte, oxidized patina. Surface shows heavy circulation wear, dirt accumulation in recesses, and typical aluminum pitting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text: LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE (top), 2 FRANCS (center), 1947 (bottom). Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and Wing mint mark (Chief Engraver Lucien Bazor) flanking the date.
Dimensions Estimate
27 mm in diameter, 2.2 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard struck circulation coinage.
Clasp & Closure
N/A. Plain edge, not converted for jewelry.
Chain & Links
Plain, smooth edge typical of the 1947 aluminum 2 Franc series.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck die work. The 'Morlon Type' is noted for its clean, symmetrical layouts and balanced typography, though the aluminum strike is less sharp than earlier bronze versions.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typography for the period; genuine Paris Mint marks; weight-to-volume ratio matches aluminum; characteristic light-grey oxidation.
Origin & Maker
France, Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designer: P. Morlon.
Era & Period
Post-WWII / Fourth French Republic (1947). Designed originally in the late Art Deco style by Pierre-Alexandre Morlon.
Age Estimate
Exactly 77 years old (Dated 1947).
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic recovery of France following the German occupation; features the iconic Republican motto adopted during the French Revolution.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (VG). Significant surface wear on the high points of the cornucopias, visible scratches, and environmental toning/grime typical of base metal circulation coins.
Value Estimate
Minimal numismatic value. Resale value approximately $0.25 - $1.00 USD. It has zero gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives, as aluminum is very soft and scratches easily. Store in a PVC-free coin flip to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1947 1 Franc Aluminum (smaller), 1947 5 Francs Aluminum-Bronze (gold-colored but also not real gold).
Interesting Facts
Aluminum was once considered more precious than gold in the mid-19th century, but by 1947, it was used for French 'emergency' coinage because the country was rebuilding after the war.