Depicts a stylized sawfish, denomination and the bank's name. Engraver's initials (RJ) are only for the 2004 Paris Mint issue on the bottom left.

Sawfishes, also known as carpenter sharks, are a family of rays characterized by a long, narrow, flattened rostrum, or nose extension, lined with sharp transverse teeth, arranged in a way that resembles a saw. They are among the largest fish with some species reaching lengths of about 7 m (23 ft). They are found worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions in coastal marine and brackish estuarine waters, as well as freshwater rivers and lakes.

The Central Bank of the West African States chose a stylized sawfish to appear on coins and banknotes of the CFA currency due to its mythological value representing fecundity and prosperity. The image takes its form from an Akan and Baoule bronze weight used for exchanges in the commercial trade of gold powder.

Engraver: Raymond Joly (RJ)

Denomination in Franc CFA (Franc of the Financial Community of Africa), surrounded by agricultural elements (maize, bananas, etc.) representing the region's primary resources. The inscription "West African Monetary Union" is above, and the issue date is surrounded by bars (Royal Mint) or by privy and mint marks (Paris mint, the 2004 issue only) below.

Mint mark of the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris in Pessac): Cornucopia (horn of plenty)
Privy mark of the General Engraver of the Paris Mint: Hunting horn with a wave and a fish (Hubert Larivière)

Engraver: Matthew Bonaccorsi