French Louis-Philippe I 5 Francs Silver Coin 1833-B (La Rochelle)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None (Silver Metal)
Purity: 0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of 90% silver (.900 fineness) and 10% copper. It is not a gold item.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of 90% silver (.900 fineness) and 10% copper. It is not a gold item.
Gold Type
None (Silver Metal)
Weight
25.00 grams (Standard specification for French 5 Francs)
Description
A classic example of 19th-century French numismatics, this 5 Francs silver coin features a reverse design consisting of a laurel wreath tied with a ribbon, enclosing the denomination and date. It represents the monetary stability established during the reign of the 'Citizen King' Louis-Philippe I.
Key Features
Laurel wreath reverse, 'B' mint mark for La Rochelle (a scarcer mint than Paris), and the larger 37mm silver crown format.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with significant surface oxidation and patina consistent with age. Circulated finish with wear on high relief areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Denominated as '5 FRANCS', dated '1833', mint mark 'B' (signifying La Rochelle Mint), designer mark 'H' below the wreath.
Dimensions Estimate
37.0 mm diameter; 2.5 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None (Reeded edge)
Chain & Links
Standard reeded edge with incuse lettering 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE'
Craftsmanship Details
Steam-press struck with consistent centering; high relief laurel leaves show detailed veins despite circulation wear.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles for the era, 'B' mint mark position, 'H' designer mark, and visible weight-to-diameter ratio consistent with .900 silver.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of France, La Rochelle Mint (indicated by 'B' mint mark)
Era & Period
July Monarchy (Louis-Philippe I, 1830–1848)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1833 (Approx. 191 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-Napoleonic era of French history and the rise of the bourgeois class under Louis-Philippe I.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extra Fine (EF) details. Significant surface grime/toning in the recesses of the wreath. No major gouges, but minor rim dings present.
Value Estimate
Silver bullion value ~$20-$25; Numismatic value ~$40-$80 depending on collector demand for the specific mint mark.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or use chemical dips as this destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
Other silver crown-sized coins like the US Morgan Dollar, British Crown, or Spanish 8 Reales.
Interesting Facts
The 5 Franc coin was the heavy 'workhorse' of the Latin Monetary Union and was widely used across Europe as a standard for silver bullion currency.