Due to the events of the Second World War, and the German invasion of 16 june 1940, the territory of France was divided into two parts, the northern part directly occupied by the German army, and the southern with a new form of government, the French State (also called Vichy France, from the name of the town that assumed the role of capital), formally independent but de facto controlled by Germany. The new government was leaded by Marshal Philippe Petain, who was granted full powers by the National Assembly.

During the French State period, "poorer" materials were used for the coinage, that is zinc for 10 and 20 cents and aluminum for 50 cents, 1 and 2 francs. To these values was added the 5-franc coin made of cupronickel, which in fact, however, did never entered into circulation, with a large amount of the pieces requisitioned by the German army in order to be recast.
In 1941 coins were still minted with the design similar to those of the Third Republic, while from 1942 a new serie came into circulation with the motto "TRAVAIL FAMILLE PATRIE" in place of "LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE".

During the historical period of the French State the coins were minted in three distinct mints: Paris (no mint mark), Beaumont le Roger (mint mark B) and Castelsarrasin (mint mark C).

The Vichy regime ended in august 1944, due to the liberation of France by the allies.

Below is the list of French State coins:

• 10 centesimi
• 20 centesimi
• 50 centesimi
• 1 Franco
• 2 Franchi
• 5 Franchi