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The Morocco 100 Francs 1953 Y#52 coin is a striking silver issue that embodies the final years of French colonial rule in Morocco and the enduring beauty of North African Islamic art. Minted during the reign of Sultan Mohammed V, the coin is a numismatic reflection of a transitional period in Moroccan history, as nationalist movements surged toward independence. Struck in 1953, the same year the French authorities deposed Mohammed V, this silver coin carries with it a powerful historical resonance. Its elaborate geometric and calligraphic design, generous silver content, and limited issuance make it a desirable piece for collectors of world silver and North African coinage. The XF to AU (Extra Fine to About Uncirculated) condition range further enhances its appeal by preserving both detail and surface integrity.
The obverse of the 1953 100 Francs features a beautiful and complex central design dominated by a traditional Islamic star motif surrounded by radiating geometric and arabesque elements. Encircling the star pattern is an ornate inscription in Arabic calligraphy, reading “Sultan Mohammed bin Youssef,” referring to Sultan Mohammed V, the ruling monarch at the time. The coin’s artistic elements evoke centuries of Moroccan craftsmanship, drawing from tilework, architecture, and manuscript ornamentation. The outer edge is ringed with tiny repeating rosettes and decorative forms, creating a tapestry-like border that heightens the aesthetic richness of the coin.
The reverse of the coin maintains the theme of intricate geometric beauty, displaying a bold five-pointed star or “Seal of Solomon” design at the center, surrounded by an eight-pointed interlace pattern. This is enclosed by a ring of repeating motifs resembling both stars and floral elements, indicative of Moorish influence. The denomination “100 FRANCS” is inscribed in bold Latin characters in the upper half of the outer circle, with the Arabic numeral “١٠٠” and the Arabic script for “Francs” below it. The year of issue “1953” is placed prominently at the bottom. This fusion of Arabic and Latin inscriptions mirrors Morocco's position as a cultural crossroads between Europe and the Islamic world during the colonial period.
This silver coin was struck in .835 fine silver with a total weight of 20 grams and a diameter of 34.5 mm. The actual silver weight (ASW) amounts to approximately 0.536 ounces, making it a substantial coin both visually and in terms of bullion content. The reeded edge adds an additional measure of security and formality to the coin’s design. Minted by the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris), the coin bears no explicit mintmark, but its origin is well documented. The 1953 100 Francs was issued as part of Morocco’s continued use of the franc-based monetary system under French protectorate rule, a practice that would shift significantly after independence was achieved in 1956.
The mintage of the 1953 100 Francs was relatively limited, with just 500,000 pieces struck. While not exceedingly rare, this relatively low number, combined with historical and silver bullion demand, makes the coin less commonly found in higher grades. Many circulated extensively in Moroccan markets during the final years of the protectorate, reducing the number of well-preserved survivors. The 1953 issue was the last of the silver 100 Francs coins before Moroccan coinage transitioned to a new system under King Mohammed V, following independence. Thus, this coin serves as both a final chapter in one era and a prelude to another.
Coins in XF (Extra Fine) to AU (About Uncirculated) condition show considerable detail in the devices with only slight wear on the high points. In XF condition, light friction is visible on the intricate patterns, particularly along the tips of the stars and calligraphy, but most of the original strike remains intact and pleasing. In AU, wear is minimal and generally limited to the most exposed areas, with strong remaining luster and sharp design features. Toning may be present and is often welcomed by collectors when it adds to the coin’s overall eye appeal. Coins in this grade range are excellent representatives of the type, offering beauty and detail without the premium of full uncirculated examples.
Market values for a 1953 Morocco 100 Francs coin in XF to AU condition typically range from $40 to $80, depending on the quality of strike, toning, and the coin’s overall eye appeal. As silver bullion prices rise, the melt value provides a floor, but collector interest in the coin’s historical context and aesthetic craftsmanship supports a premium well above bullion content. Graded specimens, particularly those in AU58 or MS60 and higher, can command significantly higher prices, especially if certified by NGC or PCGS and presented with full mint luster and minimal contact marks.
Historically, 1953 was a year of immense importance for Morocco. Sultan Mohammed V was deposed by French colonial authorities and exiled to Madagascar in August of that year, a move that triggered widespread protests and intensified the independence movement. His image was never placed on circulating coinage, but his name featured on coins such as the 100 Francs, representing national identity and legitimacy in the eyes of many Moroccans. The coin thus serves as a historical artifact of a monarch both beloved and politically transformative. When he was reinstated in 1955, he resumed his path toward independence, ultimately becoming the first King of independent Morocco in 1957.
The 1953 100 Francs silver coin is part of a broader series of French Protectorate-era Moroccan coinage that blends traditional Islamic art with European minting technology. The motifs and scripts reflect centuries of cultural synthesis, while the use of silver affirms the coin’s dual role as both practical currency and symbol of wealth. Collectors of world coins, Islamic numismatics, or silver type coins value this issue not just for its metal content but for its design complexity and historical narrative. It is often included in thematic sets highlighting African nations, post-colonial transitions, or Islamic architectural motifs.
In conclusion, the Morocco 100 Francs 1953 Y#52 in XF to AU condition is an outstanding example of mid-20th century North African coinage. With its generous silver content, elaborate Islamic design, and close association with Sultan Mohammed V and the twilight of French colonial rule, this coin is a tangible link to Morocco’s turbulent journey to sovereignty. The blend of art, history, and silver bullion value ensures its place in both collector cabinets and the broader story of global numismatics. For those seeking a coin that tells a story with every detail and sparkle of silver, the 1953 Moroccan 100 Francs is a timeless choice.