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The French Somaliland 2 Francs 1959 coin, cataloged as KM#9, is a brilliant uncirculated (BU) example of a transitional colonial-era issue struck just before the territory underwent major political change. Produced in aluminum-bronze and minted in Paris, this coin is one of the final issues bearing the name “Côte Française des Somalis” (French Somaliland), a French overseas territory located in the Horn of Africa, now known as the Republic of Djibouti. The 1959 issue holds both historical and numismatic significance, representing the closing years of French administration and the evolution toward local autonomy and eventual independence in the late 20th century.
The obverse of the 1959 2 Francs coin features a strong and iconic image of Marianne, the national symbol of the French Republic, shown wearing a Phrygian cap and facing right. The design, created by renowned French engraver Raymond Joly, is detailed and classically styled, conveying the ideals of liberty and republicanism. The legend “REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE” surrounds the portrait, rendered in a bold and legible font. In BU condition, the coin shows no evidence of wear, and the high points of Marianne’s face, cap, and hair retain full definition. The fields exhibit original luster, often with a light golden hue typical of aluminum-bronze alloys, and surfaces are free from marks, haze, or discoloration.
The reverse features a detailed and regionally appropriate design of a pair of antelopes—one standing and one reclining—amid acacia trees and desert flora, symbolizing the local wildlife and natural environment of the territory. This reverse was unique to French Somaliland’s 2 Francs denomination, emphasizing the territory’s distinct cultural and geographical identity while under French governance. The denomination “2 FRANCS” appears prominently at the bottom, with “CÔTE FRANÇAISE DES SOMALIS” arching around the top. The date “1959” is placed below the reclining antelope. In brilliant uncirculated condition, the coin’s devices are sharply struck, with rich original luster that enhances the fine engraving lines in the antelopes’ musculature, tree branches, and ground texture.
The coin was struck in aluminum-bronze (Cu92, Al6, Ni2) and measures 23 mm in diameter with a weight of 4 grams. The metallic composition gives the coin a warm golden tone that retains brilliance over time, particularly when preserved in uncirculated condition. Unlike silver or copper coins, aluminum-bronze is resistant to corrosion, but the surfaces can dull if mishandled. In BU grade, this coin retains its full mint finish and sharp edge definition, characteristics that greatly enhance its collectibility and visual appeal. It exhibits uniform color and often displays a light cartwheel luster when tilted under light.
The 1959 2 Francs was produced at the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris), and though specific mintage figures for colonial coins are often underreported or estimated, the issue was not struck in enormous quantities. Many examples circulated heavily in French Somaliland, which further limits the availability of fully uncirculated survivors today. As a result, BU examples are far scarcer than the modest original mintage might suggest. Well-preserved coins are especially prized among collectors of French colonial coinage and African historical numismatics.
This issue is particularly significant for its timing. Just a year after its release, in 1960, French Somaliland underwent a name change to the “Territory of the Afars and the Issas,” reflecting the growing desire for regional autonomy among the local population. In 1977, the territory achieved full independence as the Republic of Djibouti. As such, the 1959 2 Francs stands as one of the last coins to bear the “French Somaliland” name, encapsulating the final phase of French colonial governance in the region. For historians and collectors alike, it is a poignant reminder of the sweeping decolonization movements across Africa during the mid-20th century.
Brilliant uncirculated examples of the 1959 2 Francs are visually striking, with the contrast between the bright yellow-gold fields and the crisp detail of the design creating a rich viewing experience. These coins are often stored in 2x2 holders or archival flips to preserve their delicate surfaces. In this grade, the coin has full original luster, no signs of handling, and completely intact strike across all devices. Even the subtle detail in the background vegetation and antelope limbs remains untouched by circulation or environmental exposure.
Collectors specializing in French colonial coinage find this issue indispensable for its regional uniqueness, one-year-only date, and artistic merit. It also holds strong appeal for those interested in African history or the evolution of coinage in former colonial territories. The wildlife-themed reverse further attracts thematic collectors who pursue world coins featuring fauna, making the coin a crossover item within multiple collector niches. Its modest size and affordability, even in high grade, make it accessible to beginning and advanced collectors alike.
The French Somaliland 2 Francs 1959 KM#9 in Brilliant Uncirculated condition is a shining representation of late colonial-era African numismatics. With its iconic portrait of Marianne, its evocative wildlife reverse, and its historical placement at the end of French governance, it offers both visual charm and educational value. Well-struck, beautifully preserved, and regionally significant, this coin remains one of the most attractive and collectible minor denominations from mid-20th century French overseas territories.