Collection: Banknotes of the old and modern Central African States

Discover the Notaphily of the CFA Franc: A Tribute to Unity and Diversity

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Central African CFA franc banknotes , where each note reflects the economic unity, cultural diversity, and natural wealth of the six countries of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) : Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo (Brazzaville), Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we present our carefully curated collection of CFA franc (XAF) banknotes , perfect for both seasoned collectors and new buyers passionate about the monetary heritage of this dynamic region. CFA franc banknotes are more than just paper money: they are relics that tell the story of the creation of a common currency in 1945, consolidated after the independence movements of the 1960s, and symbolizing regional cooperation and economic stability.

The Monetary Evolution of CEMAC: From the Colonial Franc to the CFA Franc

Before independence (1958–1960), the territories of French Equatorial Africa used the French colonial franc . In 1945, the CFA franc (French Colonies of Africa, later Financial Communities of Africa) was created for the French colonial territories, managed by the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) , founded in 1972 in Yaoundé, Cameroon. After independence, the CEMAC countries (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon) adopted the Central African CFA franc (XAF) as their common currency, pegged to the euro since 1999 through an agreement with France. The first 500-franc banknotes, issued in 1960, featured colonial designs, while modern series highlight wildlife, such as the elephant, and regional modernization, such as ports and schools.

Rare Banknotes: Jewels of Notaphily from the CFA Franc

Our collection includes rare CFA franc banknotes , such as the French Equatorial Africa issues (1945–1960) in denominations of 5, 10, 50, 100, and 1,000 francs, featuring colonial engravings and scenes of local markets. The post-independence series from 1960–1992 are notable for their designs incorporating regional symbols, such as the antelope on the 1,000 franc note , and views of the Congo River. Commemorative issues, such as the 2002 2,000 franc note for the 30th anniversary of the BEAC, feature the bank's headquarters in Yaoundé and symbols of unity.

For enthusiasts of African banknotes , we offer unique pieces such as the 1994 10,000 franc note featuring elephants and the port of Douala, and the modern 2020 5,000 franc note, which highlights a student and solar panels, symbolizing sustainable development. These banknotes incorporate advanced security features, such as metallic threads, optically variable inks, microtext, and tactile elements for the visually impaired, introduced since 2002. The rarity of issues such as the 1960 500 franc note or the 1990 series, with limited print runs during periods of instability in the region, makes them coveted pieces at international auctions, valued for their connection to the economic integration and biodiversity of the CEMAC (Central and Eastern Europe).

Preservation and Authenticity: Our Promise

Conservation is a key pillar in our selection of CFA franc banknotes . Each piece is assessed according to international standards such as VF (Very Fine) or UNC (Uncirculated), guaranteeing the clarity of details like the antelope watermark, fluorescent fibers, and the signatures of BEAC governors. We recommend that collectors of rare banknotes verify authenticity under UV light, where elements such as serial numbers and cultural motifs glow in shades of green or blue, in accordance with the bank's standards. At Iberoamericana Banknotes , each banknote undergoes a rigorous verification process to guarantee its authenticity , preventing common counterfeits such as printing defects or missing security threads, which are frequent in replicas of colonial or early banknotes.

Why Collect CFA Franc Banknotes

From the 1960 500-franc note, featuring a nomadic herder and a market, to the 2020 1,000-franc note , with the gorilla and the Kribi Bridge, this collection celebrates the identity of CEMAC: its regional cooperation, its biodiversity, and its economy based on oil, agriculture, and mining. Each banknote reflects milestones such as the creation of BEAC in 1972 or the adoption of the euro in 1999. For new buyers , it's an opportunity to invest in pieces with historical value; for experienced collectors , it's a chance to complete series with rare or commemorative denominations that enrich any collection.

Trust Iberoamericana Banknotes

At Iberoamericana Banknotes , we guarantee the authenticity of every banknote with detailed certificates and expertise in Ibero-American and African numismatics. We offer pieces in optimal condition to enhance your collecting legacy and provide secure and discreet international shipping to any destination. Embark on a journey through the notaphily of the Central African CFA franc and own a piece of history with Iberoamericana Banknotes .