Benin Dahomey 100 francs Independence Ganvie Ships PR68 PCGS silver coin 1971

The Dahomey (Benin) 100 francs “Ganvié – Independence” silver coin 1971 is a historically and culturally significant issue that reflects the nation’s identity shortly after independence. On the obverse, the design depicts a vivid scene of Ganvié, often referred to as the “Venice of Africa,” a unique stilt village on Lake Nokoué. Traditional houses on wooden stilts and local boats gliding across the water highlight the centuries-old lifestyle of the Tofinu people. The inscription Ganvié is placed below, framing this distinctive cultural heritage site. The reverse features the coat of arms of the Republic of Dahomey, with two leopards as supporters, a shield divided into four sections displaying a castle, a palm tree, a ship, and a star — symbols of history, nature, commerce, and aspiration. The inscriptions include République du Dahomey, the year 1971, and the denomination 100 Francs CFA. Struck in high-quality silver proof, this coin is graded PR68DCAM by PCGS, attesting to its superb preservation and mirror-like surfaces. As part of Dahomey’s early post-independence coinage, it carries both numismatic rarity and cultural depth, making it a prized collectible for enthusiasts of African history, silver proof issues, and world coins.

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