1943 – Morocco 10 Francs Banknote – Banque D’État du Maroc “Arabic & French Dual Text” Issue

1943 – Morocco 10 Francs Banknote – Banque D’État du Maroc “Arabic & French Dual Text” Issue
CA$35.00

This 1943 Morocco 10 Francs banknote, issued by the Banque D’État du Maroc, is a remarkable bilingual currency from the French Protectorate era that beautifully blends Arabic artistry and French colonial design. Printed by the E.A. Wright Bank Note Company of Philadelphia, this note represents the international collaboration and aesthetic refinement of World War II–era North African banknotes.

The obverse features intricate Arabic calligraphy surrounded by ornate geometric borders in blue and red, with the denomination “10” displayed in large star-shaped medallions on each side. The Arabic text includes the title of the issuing authority, Al-Bank Al-Dawla Al-Maghribiya (Bank of the State of Morocco), alongside signatures of Moroccan officials. The patterned background of repeated “BANQUE D’ÉTAT DU MAROC” text adds both texture and anti-counterfeiting detail, framed by Islamic-inspired motifs and symmetrical flourishes.

The reverse side showcases the French counterpart, bearing the text “Banque D’État du Maroc – Dix Francs” in classic serif typeface. A five-pointed Seal of Morocco star occupies the center, symbolizing protection and national heritage. The surrounding design features columns and arabesque patterns, rendered in elegant olive green and black ink, harmonizing the artistic influences of both Moroccan and European engraving traditions. The bottom of the note reads “E.A. Wright Bank Note Co. Phila.,” confirming its American printing origin during wartime currency shortages.

This note captures the transitional identity of 1940s Morocco, reflecting both its deep-rooted Islamic design language and its integration into the French colonial economic system. It remains a key collectible for world currency enthusiasts who appreciate early North African paper money with bilingual inscriptions and high historical value.

Details:

  • Country: Morocco

  • Denomination: 10 Francs

  • Date Issued: May 1, 1943 (1-5-43)

  • Issuer: Banque D’État du Maroc

  • Printer: E.A. Wright Bank Note Co., Philadelphia, USA

  • Front Design: Arabic inscriptions, value in numerals “10”, geometric and floral Islamic patterns in blue and red

  • Back Design: French text “DIX FRANCS,” Moroccan star emblem, columns, and ornate frame in green and black

  • Languages: Arabic and French

  • Serial Number: M335 919

  • Dimensions: Approx. 150 × 80 mm

  • Material: Banknote paper with fine guilloché background

  • Watermark: Likely numeric or patterned watermark (typical for the issue)