France 5 Centimes Aux Dames de France Necessity Token Stamp

France · 1900 · 5 centimes

This is a 5 centimes necessity token stamp, also known as 'timbre-monnaie', issued by the 'Aux Dames de France' department store in Bordeaux. It features a relief design and was created using typography, likely serving as a form of local currency.

Necessity money ('monnaie de nécessité') was commonly issued by local businesses or municipalities in France during periods of currency shortage, particularly in the early 20th century, to facilitate local commerce and transactions.