100 francs 1964

Common. This note appears frequently in the secondary market with consistent availability. eBay sales data spanning 2011-2025 shows numerous transactions at modest prices, with VF specimens typically realizing $5-$31 USD, and catalogue values (2019) placing VF examples at approximately $15. The regular circulation history and substantial print run of this 1961-1964 issue series indicate no scarcity factors.

This banknote was issued during the early years of the Democratic Republic of Congo's independence (1961-1964), a tumultuous period marked by the Katanga Crisis and political consolidation under President Joseph Kasavubu. The depiction of Kasavubu in formal attire reflects the nation-building efforts of the era, while the crowned cranes symbolize Congo's natural wealth and wildlife heritage. The National Assembly building illustrated on the reverse represented the country's democratic aspirations during this formative post-colonial period.

The obverse features a left-facing portrait of President Joseph Kasavubu wearing spectacles and formal business attire (suit and tie), positioned on the left side of the note. To the right, two grey crowned cranes are depicted in a naturalistic setting with palm trees and grassland vegetation, representing Congo's fauna and natural landscape. The BNC (Banque Nationale du Congo) logo appears on the left side with decorative geometric and spiral patterns framing the composition. The reverse displays a classical architectural illustration of the National Assembly building in Kinshasa, characterized by a central dome, columned portico, multiple windows, and symmetrical design. This is enclosed within an ornamental oval frame featuring radiating geometric line patterns, with decorative banners above and below containing the bank name and denomination.

FRONT: 'BANQUE NATIONALE du CONGO' (National Bank of Congo) / '100' and 'CENT FRANCS' (One Hundred Francs) / 'LE GOUVERNEUR' (The Governor) / 'GB285132' (Serial number) / 'LE CONTREFACTEUR EST D'UNI DE SERVITUDE PENALE' (The counterfeiter is subject to penal servitude). BACK: 'BANQUE NATIONALE' and 'DU CONGO' (National Bank of Congo) / '100' (denomination in ornamental oval) / 'THOMAS DE LA RUE & COMPANY, LIMITED' (printer attribution).

Intaglio engraving (line engraving and steel plate printing), evidenced by the fine line work, detailed portrait rendering, complex background patterns, and sharp, crisp printing quality observed throughout both sides. Printed by Thomas de la Rue & Company, Limited (London), a premier security printer known for high-quality banknote production. The security features include multiple serial number placements and intricate geometric patterning designed to deter counterfeiting.

This example appears to be Pick 6a (standard issue, 1961-1.8.1964). The visual analysis confirms the characteristic dark brown on multicolored underprint with Kasavubu at left and crowned cranes at right. The serial number prefix 'GB' and the specific date range confirm this as the primary variety. PMG records indicate variants P-6a and P-6s exist for this Pick number; this specimen does not show evidence of being a specimen note (P-6s), making it consistent with P-6a classification.