French 5 Francs Silver Coin (Hercules Group Type), 1873-A Mint
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · None (Silver Alloy). The metal is .900 silver, which has a natural cool grey/white metallic luster.
Purity: 0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver (.900 fine) and 10% Copper. There is no gold content in this specimen.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver (.900 fine) and 10% Copper. There is no gold content in this specimen.
Gold Type
None (Silver Alloy). The metal is .900 silver, which has a natural cool grey/white metallic luster.
Weight
25.00 grams (standard minted weight)
Description
A classic French 5 Francs silver coin featuring the reverse design of the Hercules Group. The denomination and date are surrounded by a laurel and oak leaf wreath, representing peace and strength. This coin served as a pillar of the Latin Monetary Union and was a standard of international commerce in the late 19th century.
Key Features
Hercules design (on obverse, not visible), '.900' silver fineness, 'A' Paris mint mark, and distinctive reeded edge.
Color & Finish
Silver-white metallic tone with moderate circulation patina and surface oxidation; shows honest wear from historical use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE', Value '5 FRANCS', Date '1873'. Mint mark 'A' indicates Paris Mint. Includes bee (General Engraver) and anchor (Mint Director) privy marks.
Dimensions Estimate
37 mm diameter; 2.5 mm thickness (Standard French 5 Francs specifications)
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely numismatic relief engraving.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; the coin features a reeded edge for security against shaving of the precious metal.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; reeded edge (grooved vertical lines along the circumference).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via industrial steam-powered coin presses. High-relief die engraving with sharp denticles and precise edge reeding.
Authentication Indicators
Correct lettering font for the Paris Mint, centered strike, consistent rim denticles, and identifiable privy marks for the 1873 period.
Origin & Maker
France; Paris Mint (indicated by the 'A' mint mark); Original design by Augustin Dupré.
Era & Period
French Third Republic (1870–1940); specifically the late 19th-century post-monarchical era.
Age Estimate
Dated 1873 (151 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the stability of the French Third Republic and the enduring 'Hercules' motif which has appeared on French coinage for over 200 years.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Significant surface contact marks, light scratches, and softened details on the wreath and lettering. No major damage or holes.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver bullion value plus a small numismatic premium; approximately $25 - $40 USD depending on current silver spot prices and buyer demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Keep in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule. Handling should be done by the edges to prevent skin oils from causing toning.
Similar Items
20 Francs Gold 'Napoleon' or 'Marianne Rooster' coins (which contain actual gold), or 5 Francs silver coins from the Second Republic.
Interesting Facts
Though this coin is silver, the 1870s was a period of the 'Gold Standard' debate; many similar denominations were produced in gold (20 Francs) to stabilize the economy after the Franco-Prussian War.