Tonkin (1905-1905) Coins
The Tonkin era in French Indochina between 1885 and 1905 was a period of significant change in the region, both in political and economic terms. During these two decades, the French colonial administration implemented various measures to consolidate its control and exploit the resources of the area, which was also reflected in the local monetary system.
Colonial administration and economy
Under French rule, Tonkin underwent a gradual economic transformation. The colonial administration encouraged the development of rice, tea and rubber plantations, as well as the exploitation of mineral resources. This period saw the introduction of new infrastructure, such as railroads and ports, which facilitated trade and the export of raw materials. However, the majority of the local population remained engaged in subsistence agriculture, while the French elite and some collaborating Vietnamese benefited mainly from economic growth.
Monetary system and numismatics
As for the monetary system, this period witnessed a gradual transition to the Indochina piastra, officially introduced in 1885. This currency, based on the silver standard, initially coexisted with traditional Vietnamese coins and Chinese currencies. Tonkin coins of this era reflect this duality, with pieces combining French and Vietnamese elements. Coins of different denominations were minted, from centimes to piastres, some with inscriptions in French and Vietnamese. These numismatic pieces are tangible testimonies of the cultural and economic fusion that characterized Tonkin under French colonial rule, representing a crucial period in the region's monetary history.
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable Tonkin (1905-1905) coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Ancient coins of French Indochina
To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of French Indochina.
Tonkin 1905-1905 French Administration 1885-1940 Vichy France 1939-1944 Federation of Indochina 1945-1947Coin Catalog
1/600 piastres (Tonkin Protectorate)
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of French Indochina
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