French 5 Francs Silver Coin 1873-A (Hercules Group Type)
Coin (Numismatic, Circulated) · None. The item is silver, exhibiting a characteristic white/greyish metallic luster typical of 900 fine silver.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver and 10% Copper. It is a silver coin, not a gold item.
Type
Coin (Numismatic, Circulated)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver and 10% Copper. It is a silver coin, not a gold item.
Gold Type
None. The item is silver, exhibiting a characteristic white/greyish metallic luster typical of 900 fine silver.
Weight
25.00 grams (Standard specification for this denomination and era).
Description
A classic French 5 Francs silver coin featuring the wreath reverse design. The center states the denomination and date surrounded by a laurel and olive leaf wreath tied with a ribbon. It represents the post-monarchy republican coinage of France.
Key Features
Hercules Group reverse; 'A' Mint mark for Paris; 90% silver content; large crown-sized silver format.
Color & Finish
Metallic silver-grey with a dull luster consistent with old circulation; shows visible surface scratches, abrasions, and a light natural patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse/Reverse inscriptions: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE', '5 FRANCS 1873'. Mint mark 'A' (Paris Mint). Director's mark (Bee) and Engraver General's mark (Anchor).
Dimensions Estimate
37mm Diameter; 2.5mm Thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal coin.
Clasp & Closure
None. Finished with a reeded (milled) edge.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge features vertical reeding to prevent metal clipping.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck at the Paris Mint using industrial steam-press technology, featuring high-relief engraving characteristic of 19th-century French numismatics.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font for 1873-A; presence of specific privy marks (Bee and Anchor); correct reeding patterns. Weight and diameter verification recommended to rule out modern counterfeits.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by Augustin Dupré.
Era & Period
French Third Republic (1870–1940); 19th Century Industrial Coinage.
Age Estimate
Dated 1873; 151 years old.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the Latin Monetary Union era, where several European countries standardized their coinage to a common silver and gold weight.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible heavy scratches and 'bag marks' on the field. Rim shows minor dings. Graded roughly as Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) in numismatic terms based on wear levels.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $35.00 USD. Value is based almost entirely on silver melt value plus a small numismatic premium for the date/mint.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
French 5 Francs Gold (much smaller, 1.6g), Silver 5 Francs of Napoleon III, 50 Francs Hercules Silver (larger modern commemorative).
Interesting Facts
The Hercules design used on the obverse of this type was originally created during the French Revolution (1795) and has been revived multiple times in French history.