5000 francs 1958

Common. While high-denomination notes are less frequently encountered in circulation than lower values, the 5000 Francs from 1957-1958 was part of a substantial regular issue by the Banque de France before the 1960 currency reform. Catalog values from 2016 (VF: $340, UNC: $2475) and the eBay transaction data showing EF examples selling for approximately $375-400 indicate this is a widely available note in the collector market. The abundance of catalog references, trading history, and modest price points confirm common status despite its high original denomination.

This note was issued during the Fourth Republic period (1947-1959), a transitional era in French monetary policy that preceded the introduction of the New Franc in 1960. The selection of King Henri IV (r. 1589-1610) as the primary portrait subject reflects French historical tradition, pairing his image with the Pont Neuf in Paris and Château de Pau—both landmarks associated with Henri IV's reign and legacy. The high denomination of 5000 Francs reflects the inflationary pressures of the post-war period that would ultimately necessitate the currency reform of 1960.

The obverse features a right-facing profile portrait of King Henri IV of Bourbon, rendered in classical Renaissance style with a distinctive white ruffled collar characteristic of late 16th-century French court dress. The background depicts the Pont Neuf (New Bridge) spanning the Seine in Paris, with fortified architecture and harbor elements visible. The reverse presents Henri IV in a three-quarter profile facing right, set against Château de Pau—his birthplace in southwestern France—identifiable by its distinctive twin pointed towers and crenellated walls. Both sides are framed by elaborate ornamental borders featuring repeating floral and geometric patterns, heraldic lions in circular medallions and shield designs, and decorative putti (cherub) figures. The color scheme of pink, gold, blue, cream, and brown creates a harmonious, richly detailed aesthetic typical of high-value French banknotes of this era.

FRONT: 'BANQUE DE FRANCE' (Bank of France); 'Cinq Mille Francs' (Five Thousand Francs); 'LE CONTROLEUR GÉNÉRAL' (The General Controller); 'LE CAISSIER GÉNÉRAL' (The General Cashier); 'LE SECRÉTAIRE GÉNÉRAL' (The General Secretary); Serial numbers K.41, 43335, 01009433835; Date designation J.2-1-1958.J. BACK: 'BANQUE DE FRANCE' (Bank of France); 'ARTICLE 139 DU CODE PÉNAL PUNIT DES TRAVAUX FORCÉS À PERPÉTUITÉ CEUX QUI AURAIENT CONTREFAIT OU FALSIFIÉ LES BILLETS DE BANQUES AUTORISÉS PAR LA LOI, AINSI QUE CEUX QUI AURAIENT FAIT USAGE DE CES BILLETS CONTREFAITS OU FALSIFIÉS' (Article 139 of the Penal Code punishes with forced labor for life those who would have counterfeited or falsified banknotes authorized by law, as well as those who would have used these counterfeit or falsified banknotes).

This note was produced using intaglio (copperplate engraving) printing, evidenced by the fine line work, crisp detail reproduction, and embossed quality visible in the portrait and border elements. The intricate multi-color design combining pink, gold, and blue tones indicates the use of multiple printing plates and passes. The Banque de France contracted with Bradbury, Wilkinson & Company (a renowned British security printer) for French banknote production during this period, though some sources indicate French state printers were also involved. The exceptional print quality and security features (fine line patterns, complex ornamental designs, and intricate engraving) are consistent with mid-20th century security printing standards.

This specific note carries the date designation J.2-1-1958.J and serial number prefix K.41 with sequence 43335 (full: 01009433835). The 1958 date falls within the known issue period (1957-1958) for this Pick 135 type. Varieties of this series are primarily distinguished by signature combinations (three officials signed each note: the General Controller, General Cashier, and General Secretary) and date letter combinations (the prefix and suffix letters vary by printing batch). This particular specimen represents the standard 1958 printing variant. The note exhibits the standard ornate design with no known overprints or special marks.