Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 2 Francs 1965-1989, KM# 9, Madagascar
  • 2 Francs 1965-1989, KM# 9, Madagascar
Description

In 1965, 1 franc (1 iraimbilanja) and 2 francs (venty sy kirobo) coins were issued, followed by 5 francs (1 ariary) in 1966 and 10 and 20 francs (2 and 4 ariary) in 1970. The term "venty sy kirobo" derives from names used in the 19th century for  1⁄6 and  1⁄4 of a silver dollar or 5 francs piece, since  1⁄6+ 1⁄4= 5⁄12 of 5 francs is approximately 2 francs.

Obverse

Depicts a poinsettia surrounded by the inscription, date below.

The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a commercially important plant species of the diverse spurge family. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and is widely used in Christmas floral displays. It derives its common English name from Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to Mexico, who introduced the plant to the US in 1825.

The poinsettia is the national emblem of Madagascar.

FAMOAHAMBOLAN'NY REPOBLIKA MALAGASY
1970

Reverse

Value within horns of zebu head above sprigs.

A zebu (Bos primigenius indicus or Bos indicus or Bos taurus indicus), sometimes known as indicine cattle or humped cattle, is a species or subspecies of domestic cattle originating in South Asia. Zebu are characterised by a fatty hump on their shoulders, a large dewlap, and sometimes drooping ears. They are well adapted to withstanding high temperatures, and are farmed throughout the tropical countries, both as pure zebu and as hybrids with taurine cattle, the other main type of domestic cattle. Zebu are used as draught and riding animals, dairy cattle, and beef cattle, as well as for byproducts such as hides and dung for fuel and manure. Zebu, namely miniature zebu, are kept as companion animals.

Mintmark of the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris in Pessac): Cornucopia (horn of plenty)

The directors of the Paris Mint use the following mint master's marks:
1958–1974: Owl (Raymond Joly)
1974–1994: Dolphin (Emile Rousseau)

2
FRANCS
VENTY SY KIROBO

Edge

2 Francs

First Republic, Democratic Republic
KM# 9
Characteristics
Material Stainless Steel
Weight 3.4 g
Diameter 19 mm
Thickness 1.88 mm
Shape round
Alignment Coin
Mint
Paris Mint (A)

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