2 francs 1944

Common. Historical eBay sales data shows consistent pricing in the $1.75–$10.50 range for VF examples across a 10+ year period, with standard catalog values for VF at $8 (2016). The note was part of a large-scale currency issue for Allied operations in France, resulting in significant surviving quantities. VF examples are readily available in the collector market at modest valuations.

This note was issued as supplemental currency by the Allied Forces during the liberation of France in 1944, as indicated by the 'Émis en France' (Issued in France) inscription on the obverse. The reverse design prominently features the French flag and republican motto, symbolizing the restoration of French sovereignty and Allied commitment to French liberation. The Forbes Lithograph Boston printing represents American industrial support for the Allied military currency initiative in occupied and liberated France.

The obverse features a symmetrical design with the denomination '2' and text centered, flanked by ornamental corner designs in each corner. The wavy line security pattern runs throughout the note's background. The note is predominantly green with gray, black, and cream accents in the decorative elements. The reverse displays the French tricolor flag (blue, white, and red) in the center, depicted in a waving or dynamic position, surrounded by red and white wavy security line patterns and framed by a blue ornate decorative border. The republican motto appears on a banner beneath the flag. No portraits or specific landmarks are depicted; the design emphasizes national symbols and patriotic iconography.

Front side: '2' (denomination), 'DEUX FRANCS' (Two Francs), 'ÉMIS EN FRANCE' (Issued in France), 'SÉRIE DE 1944' (Series of 1944), serial number '81714059'. Back side: 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' (Liberty Equality Fraternity - the French republican motto).

Lithographic printing, executed by Forbes Lithograph Manufacturing Co. of Boston, Massachusetts. The note employs color separation printing evident in the distinct color zones (green obverse, multicolor reverse with red, blue, and white), along with integrated wavy line security patterns and ornate decorative borders typical of wartime military currency production. The printing technique demonstrates the sophisticated security and design standards applied to Allied military currency.

This note is identified as a Replacement Note with an 'X' marker near the serial number, distinguishing it from standard issue notes of the same Pick number. The serial number 81714059 is documented. Block P2 variant is noted in the reference data. The 1st Issue Supplemental French Franc Currency designation (versus later issues) may represent a minor variety within P-114b, though standard Pick nomenclature typically does not subdivide these further.