The 1952 5 francs is New Caledonia’s first five-franc coin and the only year of its type: the next fives with the same kagu came three decades later and no longer carried the legend «UNION FRANÇAISE».

That obverse legend marks its era, the French Union, which joined France and its overseas possessions from 1946 to 1958. Beside it are an allegorical figure seated on a throne with a lit torch and a cornucopia, and the signature «G.B.BAZOR»: Lucien Bazor, chief engraver of the Paris Mint, designed both sides.

The reverse shows the kagu, New Caledonia’s endemic flightless bird, between two sprigs, with «5 FRANCS» and «NOUVELLE CALEDONIE». Four million were struck in Paris; together with the 50 centimes, 1 and 2 francs of 1949, it completed the archipelago’s first aluminium series.

For a type collection this is the key early date; without it, New Caledonia’s run of five-franc coins starts only in 1983. UNC grade: the coin never circulated, shows no wear and keeps its mint lustre.

Other coins of this country and issues on related themes can be found in the VPcoins catalogue.