5 Francs 'Jimenez' French Circulation Coin (Nickel-Bronze)
Coin (Circulation/Numismatic) · Nickel-Bronze (Gold-toned alloy)
Purity: 0% Gold (Commonly mistaken for gold due to nickel-bronze color). This is a base metal alloy consisting of Copper, Aluminium, and Nickel.
Type
Coin (Circulation/Numismatic)
Purity
0% Gold (Commonly mistaken for gold due to nickel-bronze color). This is a base metal alloy consisting of Copper, Aluminium, and Nickel.
Gold Type
Nickel-Bronze (Gold-toned alloy)
Weight
10.0 grams
Description
A standard 5 Francs circulation coin from France, known as the 'Jimenez' type. It features a modern, stylized representation of the French Hexagon and the face of the Eiffel Tower on the reverse (implied). This specific golden-colored version was minted to replace the silver-colored nickel coins for easier identification.
Key Features
Modernist '5 F' typography, geometric architectural design, and the 'JIMENEZ' artist signature.
Color & Finish
Lustrous golden-yellow hue typical of bronze; semi-matte to proof-like fields with visible surface scratches and minor oxidation (patina).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend: 'RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'; Value: '5 F'; Designer signature: 'JIMENEZ' at the base. Mint marks (cornucopia for Monnaie de Paris) usually found on reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
29.0 mm diameter; 2.0 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard struck coinage.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Reeded edge finishing.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin features a reeded (milled) edge to prevent clipping.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by the Monnaie de Paris using industrial dies. High relief on the geometric patterns with sharp, clean lettering.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and diameter should match official specs (10g/29mm). The 'JIMENEZ' signature is crisp. Surface luster is consistent with nickel-bronze, not gold plating.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by Joaquin Jimenez.
Era & Period
Modern French Republic (Fifth Republic); Design era 1986-2001.
Age Estimate
Likely minted between 1986 and 2001.
Cultural Significance
Represents the final era of the French Franc (FRF) before the adoption of the Euro (€) in 2002. It reflects late 20th-century French industrial design.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Surface shows various handling marks, hairline scratches across the fields, and some light rim dings.
Value Estimate
Nominal/Numismatic value: Approximately $1.00 - $3.00 USD. Melt value is negligible (base metal). No intrinsic gold value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or acids as it removes numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
5 Francs Semeuse (Silver-colored Nickel), 10 Francs Jimenez (smaller, bimetallic), or various gold-plated souvenir tokens which are often mistaken for bullion.
Interesting Facts
This coin type was introduced in 1986 but initially faced public confusion; the gold color was meant to distinguish it from the 2 Francs coin, but it was often confused with the 10 Francs coin.