Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to France or simply interested in French currency, you may have heard of the 1 100 of a Franc. In this article, we’ll dive into what it is, its history, and how it’s used today.
What is 1 100 of a Franc?
The 1 100 of a Franc, also known as a centime, is a fractional unit of the former French currency, the Franc. It was introduced in 1795 as part of the decimalization of the Franc and was used until France adopted the Euro in 2002.
History of 1 100 of a Franc
As mentioned, the 1 100 of a Franc was introduced in 1795 as part of the decimalization of the Franc. Prior to this, the Franc was divided into livres, sous, and deniers. The introduction of the centime made calculations and transactions much easier.
Over the years, the value of the centime changed as inflation and economic factors impacted the Franc. At times, the centime was worth very little, and at other times, it held significant value.
When France adopted the Euro in 2002, the centime was officially retired.
How was 1 100 of a Franc used?
The centime was used in everyday transactions, just like any other denomination of the Franc. It was used for small purchases or to make change for larger purchases.
Interestingly, the centime was also used in French idiomatic expressions. For example, “Je suis fauché comme les blés” (I’m broke as wheat) was often followed by the phrase “J’ai même pas un centime” (I don’t even have a centime).
Collecting 1 100 of a Franc
Since the centime is no longer in circulation, it has become a popular item among coin collectors. Depending on the age and rarity of the coin, some 1 100 of a Franc pieces can be quite valuable.
If you’re interested in collecting 1 100 of a Franc, be sure to do your research to ensure you’re getting an authentic piece and not a counterfeit.
Conclusion
Although the 1 100 of a Franc is no longer in use, it holds a special place in French history and culture. Whether you’re a collector or simply curious, learning about this fractional unit can provide insight into France’s past and present.