France
At the beginning of the century, France retained the republican government that
had been established in 1870. However, continued animosity between France and
Germany led to the massive devastation of the country in World War I and the loss of
freedom under the Nazi-controlled Vichy regime during World War II. France again
became a free republic after its liberation in 1944.
Silver franc (1914) of the Third
Republic (1870-1940). This coin depicts Marianne, the personification of the French
Republic, sowing the seeds of liberty. The design, created in 1898, has been the
standard for the franc until today.
Aluminum 2 francs (1944) of the Vichy
Period (1940-1944) depicting a double-headed axe flanked by grain ears.
Aluminum-bronze 2 francs piece
(1944) produced by the U.S. Mint for the Allied troops invading Nazi-occupied France
in 1944.
Aluminum-bronze 50 centimes (1963)
of the Fifth Republic (1958-present) depicting Marianne.