France Napoleon III 10 Francs Gold Coin 1868-BB
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold with slight rose undertone due to copper content
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness); 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness); 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with slight rose undertone due to copper content
Weight
3.2258 grams (0.0933 troy oz actual gold weight)
Description
A classic specimen of 19th-century French numismatics, this 10 Francs gold coin features the Laureate head of Napoleon III on the obverse (implied) and a detailed laurel wreath on the reverse. It represents the height of the Second Empire's economic power and follows the Latin Monetary Union standards.
Key Features
Laureate wreath design, BB Strasbourg mint mark, specific 1868 date, and reeded edge
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow; semi-glossy surface with natural aged patina and minor bag marks
Hallmarks & Stamps
EMPIRE FRANCAIS, 10 FRANCS 1868, BB Mint Mark (Strasbourg), Bee and Anchor privy marks
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 19mm; Thickness of approximately 0.8mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a laurel wreath reverse design tied with a ribbon
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge for security against shaving
Chain & Links
Not applicable; reeded coin edge with vertical serrations
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck with high-pressure machinery of the Victorian era; features intricate detail in the laurel leaves and crisp typography
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the denticles (beading) around the rim, correct font style for 1868, and expected weight-to-diameter ratio
Origin & Maker
France; Strasbourg Mint (indicated by the BB mint mark)
Era & Period
Second French Empire (Napoleonic Era), 1852-1870
Age Estimate
Produced in 1868; approximately 156 years old
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the transition of France into a modern industrial power and the expansion of the French colonial empire
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine; visible wear on high points of the wreath but date and lettering remain sharp
Value Estimate
Market value typically ranges from $220 to $300 USD based on gold spot price plus a numismatic premium
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or capsule
Similar Items
20 Francs Gold Napoleon (larger 6.45g version), Swiss 10 Francs Vreneli, or Italian 10 Lire gold coins
Interesting Facts
The 10 Francs coin was often called a 'Demi-Napoleon' and was a primary unit of trade across Europe during the 1860s.