France 1963 5 Francs (Semeuse Type) - Low Gold Purity/Silver Alloy
Coin (Currency/Numismatic) · Pale Yellow (consistent with plating or low-karat jeweler's gold alloy)
Purity: Low/None Expected (Standard issue is .835 Silver); if testing as gold, likely 10K-14K jewelry reproduction or gold-plated
Type
Coin (Currency/Numismatic)
Purity
Low/None Expected (Standard issue is .835 Silver); if testing as gold, likely 10K-14K jewelry reproduction or gold-plated
Gold Type
Pale Yellow (consistent with plating or low-karat jeweler's gold alloy)
Weight
12.0 grams (Standard official weight for 5 Francs 1963)
Description
A 1963 French 5 Francs coin, originally designed by Oscar Roty. This specimen shows a distinct golden hue, suggesting it has been plated or produced as a jeweler's copy, as official 1963 issues were silver.
Key Features
Semeuse (The Sower) design, reeded edge, 1963 date, olive and oak branch reverse
Color & Finish
Lustrous pale yellow with visible surface wear and slight matte texture in the fields
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE', '5 FRANCS', and '1963' with mint marks
Dimensions Estimate
29 mm diameter; 2 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded edge)
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; original dies by Oscar Roty; notable relief in the wheat and olive branches.
Authentication Indicators
Color mismatch for official silver issue; diagnostic mint marks present; requires XRF testing to confirm gold content
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / French Fifth Republic (1960s)
Age Estimate
Dated 1963
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII economic stabilization of France and the transition to the 'New Franc'.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (VF); visible circulation wear on high points, some surface scratching
Value Estimate
Melt value of metal content (approx. $10-$20 if plated silver; variable if solid gold)
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives; store in a PVC-free numismatic flip or capsule.
Similar Items
Official 1800s 20 Francs (Le Coq), 1960s Silver 5 Francs, modern gold commemoratives
Interesting Facts
The Sower design is one of the most iconic images in numismatic history, appearing on French currency for over a century.