1 Air Division Miscellaneous

French Currency

French Currency

It is well known that RCAF personnel serving in France made use of American Military Payment Certificates, or scrip between 1952 and 1958. Being stationed in France, there was also a need to become familiar with, and make use of, the local French currency. France made use of what was known as "Old Francs" until 1960, when their currency was revalued, and everyone was introduced to "New Francs". The American and Canadian dollar is another story, for another day. (grin)

We are fortunate to have obtained some examples of French currency - as used by RCAF personnel - and have added this material on our web site.


Click on the description text to view the photograph.
  1. Front side of the 5 new franc note - 1960.
    This bill was put into circulation to replace the old 500 French franc note. The famous French writer, Victor Hugo (1802-1885) is pictured, and to his left is the Madeline Church, situated in Paris.
    Courtesy Lucien St-Hilaire.

  2. Back side of the 5 new franc note - 1960.
    Victor Hugo with the Avenue in Paris that bears his name seen in the background.
    Courtesy Lucien St-Hilaire.

  3. Front side of 100 franc note - October 1952.
    The French government commenced withdrawal of this note in 1955 and replaced it with a coin of equal value. The most popular franc notes were the 100, 500 and 1000 although there were larger ones. The "mille" note - if my memory serves me correctly - was worth approximately $2.70. Having said this, the 100 franc note pictured here would have been worth about 27 cents. This note measures 5" x 3.25" and is dated 4 September 1952.
    Courtesy Don Norrie.

  4. Back side of 100 franc note - October 1952.
    The small box at bottom centre reads "Le contrefactaur sera puni des travaux forces a perpetuite".
    Courtesy Don Norrie.


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Updated: April 27, 2003