French 5 Francs Silver Coin 1831 Louis Philippe I (B Mint Mark)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · None (Silver Alloy). Likely 90% silver and 10% copper for durability.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver (.900 Fineness).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver (.900 Fineness).
Gold Type
None (Silver Alloy). Likely 90% silver and 10% copper for durability.
Weight
25.0 grams (Standard weight for this denomination). 0.7234 troy oz Actual Silver Weight.
Description
An authentic French 5 Francs coin minted in 1831 during the reign of Louis Philippe I. The reverse features the denomination and date within a laurel and olive wreath, characteristic of Domard's neoclassical design. Although it has a metallic sheen, this is a silver coin, not a gold one, distinguished by its large diameter and historic French iconography.
Key Features
Rouen 'B' mint mark, 'An XIII' style reverse layout, significant historical age, reeded edge.
Color & Finish
Grey-silver with significant dark peripheral toning/patina and circulated luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'B' (Rouen), denoted date 1831, value '5 FRANCS', wreath design.
Dimensions Estimate
37mm Diameter, 2.5mm Thickness (Standard 'Crown' size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Relief-engraved metal coin design.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and anti-clipping security.
Chain & Links
Standard reeded coin edge with vertical milling.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by steam-powered screw press. Detail level is high with crisp denticles and clear, balanced lettering.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles for the era, 'B' mint mark placement, reeded edge consistency, genuine silver patina pattern.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of France, Rouen Mint (B Mint Mark). Engraver: Joseph-François Domard.
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830–1848), Restoration Era France.
Age Estimate
Issued 1831; approximately 193 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from the Bourbon Restoration to the Orléans Monarchy following the July Revolution of 1830.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible wear on the high points of the wreath and lettering, significant tarnish/toning around the edges, minor surface dings.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD based on silver melt value (~$20) plus numismatic premium for age and mint mark.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean chemically; numismatic value is destroyed by cleaning. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule.
Similar Items
20 Francs Gold 'Napoleon' (much smaller, gold color), 5 Francs 'Hercules' (later 19th-century design), Swiss 5 Francs.
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was known as the 'Citizen King.' The 5 Francs silver coin was the workhorse of the French economy and the basis for the Latin Monetary Union.