West Africa 5 Franc Coin (First Issued 1965)

The West African CFA 5 Franc coin, first introduced in 1965, is one of the more recognisable denominations within the UEMOA currency system. Its distinctive brass tone and bold central imagery make it stand out clearly from lower-value aluminium coins. While widely circulated across West African countries, it is not accepted by UK banks and can be exchanged through Webuyallcurrency.com.

Can this 5 Franc coin be exchanged?

Yes. Even though it is a relatively low denomination, it can still be processed as part of a bulk submission and converted into a single payment.

Key information

About the West Africa 5 Franc Coin

This coin uses an aluminium-bronze composition, giving it a rich gold tone and a more substantial feel than lower denominations. The design is both symbolic and symmetrical, combining natural elements with a central cultural motif.

Obverse (Front)

The obverse is dominated by a stylised antelope head positioned centrally. The head is elongated vertically, with two long, curved horns rising upward and outward in a sweeping arc. The horns are smooth and taper gradually, creating a strong visual frame for the upper half of the coin.

The facial features are minimal but clearly defined. The eyes are small and recessed, while the nose and central ridge of the face are formed using clean, raised lines. Below the head, short horizontal projections extend outward, maintaining the geometric style seen in other CFA coin designs.

Flanking the antelope head on both sides are symmetrical plant motifs. These appear as stylised leaves or agricultural forms, with fine engraved خطوط indicating veins and structure. The plants rise upward alongside the central figure, balancing the composition.

Encircling the design is a decorative border made up of small repeated elements, forming a continuous pattern around the rim. At the bottom, the year “2002” is engraved, aligned centrally and clearly visible.

The overall composition is highly symmetrical, with the antelope acting as a central محور.

Reverse

The reverse features a large “5 F.” positioned prominently across the centre. The numeral “5” is bold and rounded, with smooth surfaces and consistent thickness, while the “F.” is slightly smaller and aligned to the right.

Behind the denomination, the same stylised antelope head appears again, this time integrated into the background. The head is partially obscured by the numeral, creating a layered effect where the denomination takes visual priority.

Around the outer edge, the inscription “BANQUE CENTRALE DES ÉTATS DE L’AFRIQUE DE L’OUEST” follows the circular path of the coin. The lettering is evenly spaced and slightly raised, providing a clear frame for the central elements.

The background field is smooth, allowing the raised engraving of the denomination and central motif to stand out with clarity.

Why coins like this are not accepted by banks

Foreign coins, particularly lower denominations, are not processed by UK banks due to handling costs and logistical constraints. This makes specialist exchange services the only practical option.

How your West African 5 Franc coins are valued

We apply a fixed pricing structure, allowing you to see the value instantly before sending your coins. This ensures transparency and consistency.

How to exchange your coins

1. Enter the quantity of 5 Franc coins you have
2. Add them to your account
3. View your total exchange value immediately

You can then complete your submission.

Where these coins are typically found

These coins are often brought back from travel, stored in containers with other currencies, or held as part of mixed foreign coin collections.

Do you accept other West African CFA coins

Yes, we accept a wide range of West African CFA coins and banknotes. Multiple denominations can be submitted together.

FAQ: West Africa 5 Franc Coin (1965)

Can I exchange West Africa 5 Franc coins in the UK

Yes, they can be exchanged through specialist services even though banks do not accept them.

Is this coin still in circulation

Some versions remain in circulation, but they are not accepted by UK banks.

Why won’t banks accept this coin

Banks do not process foreign coins due to handling costs and logistical complexity.

How do I find out what it’s worth

You can see the value instantly by adding it to your account.

Can I send this with other currencies

Yes, you can include it alongside other coins and banknotes in one submission.

How long does payment take

Payment is typically made within 5 working days after processing.

What is the safest way to send coins

We recommend using a tracked and insured postal service such as Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Make use of leftover West African coins

If you have West Africa 5 Franc coins, Webuyallcurrency.com provides a straightforward way to exchange foreign coins and convert them into a single usable payment rather than leaving them unused.