1903 French 1 Franc Silver Coin (Sower Design)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation Currency) · None. This is a silver alloy consisting of 83.5% silver and 16.5% copper.
Purity: Not applicable (0% Gold). This coin is 83.5% Silver (.835 fineness).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation Currency)
Purity
Not applicable (0% Gold). This coin is 83.5% Silver (.835 fineness).
Gold Type
None. This is a silver alloy consisting of 83.5% silver and 16.5% copper.
Weight
5.0 grams (Standard weight for this denomination).
Description
A classic specimen of French numismatic art, the 1903 1 Franc coin features the iconic 'La Semeuse' (The Sower) on the obverse and an olive branch on the reverse. This specific coin shows significant wear consistent with daily circulation in early 20th-century France.
Key Features
Features the inscription 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' and the face value '1 FRANC' encircled by an olive branch.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with a dull, circulated patina. It shows significant cleaning marks or possible environmental toning that gives it a yellowish hue in the photo, but it is a silver coin.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and the engraver's name 'O. Roty' (Oscar Roty).
Dimensions Estimate
23.0 mm diameter; 1.3 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin features a reverse design of an olive branch and the denomination.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and grip.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a standard reeded edge typical of early 20th-century coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using steel dies. The high-relief elements show traditional French minting excellence of the early 1900s.
Authentication Indicators
The typography of '1903', the specific spacing of the lettering, and the presence of the Paris Mint marks are consistent with genuine Third Republic coinage.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
French Third Republic (1870-1940); Belle Epoque style design.
Age Estimate
Issued in 1903 (121 years old).
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French agricultural heritage and the Republican values of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Good. The surface shows scratches, evidence of previous cleaning, and loss of fine detail on the olive leaves. The coin has a yellowish cast in the image which may be due to lighting or surface oxidation/toning.
Value Estimate
Approximately $5 - $15 USD. The value is primarily based on silver content (roughly 0.134 oz ASW) and modest numismatic demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1903 50 Centimes (smaller, 2.5g silver) and 2 Francs (larger, 10g silver) from the same series.
Interesting Facts
The 'Sower' design by Oscar Roty is one of the most famous motifs in the history of French currency, reappearing on modern French Euro coins.