Goldsilverjapan offers a carefully selected collection of rare coins that reflect the history and culture of the world. Today, we would like to introduce a 500 franc silver coin issued in 1956 (1376 in the Hijri calendar), which can be said to be a symbol of Moroccan independence. This silver coin features a portrait of King Mohammed V, who led Morocco to independence, and its existence itself is a precious piece that speaks to the country's pride.
Furthermore, this coin has been graded AU58 (About Uncirculated 58) by the world-renowned PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service), a grade that indicates a high quality coin that is as close to mint state as possible, with slight circulation marks but still retaining sharp details.
1956 was a special year for Morocco. This silver coin is a "symbol of independence" that encapsulates that historic moment, making it a must-have for collectors, investors, and history buffs.
⸻
Historical background
The road to independence
Morocco was under the protectorate of France and Spain in the first half of the 20th century. However, thanks to a long-running independence movement and the strong will of the people, the country finally achieved independence on March 2, 1956. The man who embodied the hopes of the people at that time was King Mohammed V (1909–1961).
He led the independence movement from the 1940s, and despite being expelled by France and facing political pressure, he ultimately achieved independence together with the people. Since then, he has been known in Moroccan history as the "Father of Independence."
The significance of the 500 franc silver coin
The 1956 500 franc silver coin is a commemorative piece issued in the year of Morocco's independence. With its bold portrait of King Mohammed V, it proclaimed to the world that Morocco had its own head of state. It became more than just a currency; it became a symbol of national pride and a new era.
⸻
Coin specifications
• Country of issue: Kingdom of Morocco
• Publication date: 1956 AD / 1376 Hijri
• Denomination: 500 francs
• Material: Silver (.900)
• Weight: Approx. 27 grams
• Diameter: approx. 40 mm
• Obverse: Portrait of Muhammad V, Arabic inscription, and "MOHAMMED V" in Latin script
• Reverse: Decoration with a pentagram (Seal of Solomon / symbol of Morocco) and Arabic calligraphy, denomination "500 FRANCS", date of issue "1956 / AH1376"
• Appraisal: PCGS AU58
⸻
Obverse design – portrait of Mohammed V
The obverse features a profile of King Mohammed V, who embodies Morocco's independence and pride. Wearing a traditional fez, he displays his dignity as a head of state who inherits Islamic culture.
The coexistence of the Latin script "MOHAMMED V" and Arabic inscriptions symbolizes the cultural bridge between the West and Islam, and is a design that truly reflects Morocco's position immediately after independence.
⸻
Reverse design – Seal of Solomon and Islamic decoration
The reverse side features the Moroccan national symbol, the Seal of Solomon (a five-pointed star), which has symbolized protection and power in the Islamic world since ancient times and remains an important emblem depicted on the Moroccan flag today.
The coin is surrounded by elegant Arabic calligraphy, with the face value "500 FRANCS" and the year of issue clearly stated. The design, which combines Western monetary value with Islamic design, expresses the coexistence of tradition and modernity.
⸻
PCGS-certified AU58 value
This coin has been graded AU58 by PCGS. AU (About Uncirculated) indicates near-uncirculated condition, with 58 being the highest grade within that range.
• Detail: The main design is clear, with very minor wear.
• Shine: Maintains the original luster of silver.
• Distribution marks: Only very slight touch marks.
Certification by an appraisal agency is a reassuring guarantee for collectors and greatly increases the reliability of the item as an asset.
⸻
Collector's Point
This 500 franc silver coin has special value for collectors for the following reasons:
1. A symbol of independence – a significant publication year that marks a turning point in Morocco's history.
2. Portrait of the King – Early official coins featuring the Father of Independence, King Muhammad V.
3. The appeal of a silver coin – the weight and beautiful shine of 90% silver.
4. Limited issuance – Coins from the early days of independence were not widely distributed in the market, and only a limited number remain.
5. PCGS Certification – Globally trusted certification that increases your investment value.
⸻
Investment value and future prospects
In the global coin market, modern coins from African countries and Islamic countries have been attracting attention in recent years due to their significant historical background and limited supply in the market.
• Historical uniqueness: The 1956 issue, symbolizing independence, is unique.
• Rarity: High-grade, PCGS-certified specimens are even more difficult to obtain.
• International demand: There is a diverse range of demand, including North African history, Islamic history, independence commemorative coins, and silver coin collecting.
In the long term, this silver coin is likely to become more than just a collectible, but also a valuable historical investment.
⸻
Why buy from Goldsilverjapan?
Goldsilverjapan's mission is to collect the finest coins from around the world and deliver reliable quality and trust. The benefits of purchasing genuine silver coins from our store are as follows:
• Authenticity: We only sell coins certified by world-class grading agencies such as PCGS.
• Expertise: Familiar with global coins, especially the Islamic, African and Japanese markets.
• Rarity: Carefully selected premium coins that are difficult to obtain elsewhere.
• Asset value: We offer products with future potential not only as collectibles but also as investments.
⸻
conclusion
The Moroccan 1956 (AH1376) 500 franc silver coin is a piece of great historical, cultural and investment value.
• Historical importance as a symbol of independence
• Beautiful design featuring the portrait of King Muhammad V
• Cultural identity through the Seal of Solomon
• PCGS AU58 Guaranteed High Quality
• Potential for future value appreciation in the global market
This silver coin, which has all of these features, is a premium item that Goldsilverjapan is proud to present. It will not only become the centerpiece of your collection, but also a historical asset to be passed down for generations.
top of page
¥18,000Price
Related Products
bottom of page