French 10 Centimes Postal Currency (Timbre-monnaie) J.A. Lydia

France · 1900 · 10 centimes

A round metallic token featuring a 10 centimes red French definitive postage stamp (likely a Sower type) affixed to its center. The reverse side of the token displays text, possibly advertising for J.A. Lydia.

Timbre-monnaie or postal currency was often issued by private businesses or local authorities during periods of coin shortages, allowing them to provide change. This specific token from J.A. Lydia in Paris served as a form of emergency currency in the early 20th century.