1915 France 2 Francs Silver Coin (Commonly confused with gold items due to lighting and patina)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · N/A (White/Grey Silver Alloy with yellowish tarnish/patina)
Purity: Non-gold; 83.5% Silver (.835 Fineness). Standard issue for French 2 Francs of this period consists of 8.35 grams of silver and 1.65 grams of copper.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; 83.5% Silver (.835 Fineness). Standard issue for French 2 Francs of this period consists of 8.35 grams of silver and 1.65 grams of copper.
Gold Type
N/A (White/Grey Silver Alloy with yellowish tarnish/patina)
Weight
10.0 grams (Standard specification for this 1915 issue)
Description
This is a classic 1915 2 Francs piece from the French Third Republic. Featuring the iconic 'Semeuse' (The Sower) on the obverse (not pictured) and the denomination surrounded by the national motto 'Liberty, Equality, Fraternity' on the reverse. While the lighting suggested a gold hue, this is a distinct silver issue known for its high durability and elegant Art Nouveau influenced design.
Key Features
Features the 'Sower' design language, French Republican motto, specific mint marks (Cornucopia/Torch), and the 1915 war-era date.
Color & Finish
Silver-white base with significant yellowish/champagne-colored surface oxidation (toning). The finish is originally a circulation strike but now displays a dull, aged patina with light metallic luster in protected areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text: 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE', '2 FRANCS', '1915'. Marks: Cornucopia (Paris Mint) and Torch (Graveur Général Henry Patey) mint marks located at the bottom near the date.
Dimensions Estimate
27 mm diameter; 1.66 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design features a laurel branch below the denomination.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security and weight verification.
Chain & Links
Standard reeded coin edge; upright orientation.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at high pressure. Fine detail in the laurel branch and precise lettering typical of the Paris Mint's high industrial standards of the early 1900s.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font spacing for the Paris Mint, presence of authenticating marks near the date, and weight-consistent rim thickness. Note: If the item was truly gold, it would not have the '2 Francs' 1915 marking as gold issues were of different denominations like 10 or 20 Francs.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by Louis-Oscar Roty.
Era & Period
Modern/Early 20th Century (WWI Era France); Third Republic coinage design by Oscar Roty.
Age Estimate
Circa 1915 (109 years old)
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the French Republic's stability and values during the height of the First World War.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (VG/F). Significant surface circulation wear, softening of the laurel leaves, and heavy environmental toning which mimics a gold appearance. No major gouges but significant micro-scratching.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD depending on silver spot price and local collector demand. Melt value is approximately 0.2685 troy oz of actual silver weight.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1915 French 1 Franc (smaller, 5g silver); 1915 French 20 Francs (Gold, smaller 6.45g, different design featuring a Rooster).
Interesting Facts
The 'Sower' design on the obverse is one of the most famous in numismatic history, remaining on French coinage for over a century until the adoption of the Euro.