1967 France 10 Francs Hercules Coin
Silver Coin (Note: This is not gold; it is a 90% silver bullion/numismatic coin) · Not a gold item. The metallic composition is silver with a natural lustrous patina.
Purity: 0% Gold (N/A). This item is .900 Fine Silver. It contains 90% silver and 10% copper.
Type
Silver Coin (Note: This is not gold; it is a 90% silver bullion/numismatic coin)
Purity
0% Gold (N/A). This item is .900 Fine Silver. It contains 90% silver and 10% copper.
Gold Type
Not a gold item. The metallic composition is silver with a natural lustrous patina.
Weight
25.00 grams (Standard specification for this issue). Actual silver weight is 22.5 grams (0.7234 toz).
Description
The French 10 Francs Hercules silver coin is a heavy bullion piece of the 1960s. The reverse features a wreath of oak and laurel branches surrounding the denomination and date. This large-format silver coin was part of the monetary reform under Charles de Gaulle and remains a favorite for European silver stackers.
Key Features
Large 37mm diameter, '10 FRANCS' denomination, 1967 date, Hercules design (on obverse, not pictured), and .900 silver fineness.
Color & Finish
Silver metallic with a cool, bright luster. Circular satin finish with light surface scratches and natural toning consistent with circulation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Face value '10 FRANCS', date '1967', and 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' inscription. Features the cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and the 'owl' or 'dolphin' engraver marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 37.0 mm; Thickness: 2.6 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Decorative elements consist of a laurel and oak leaf wreath tied with a ribbon.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The edge is lettered with 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' with symbols.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin features a reeded/lettered edge for security and grip.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck coinage. High-relief details in the wreath. Precision lettering on the edge prevents clipping/shaving of the metal.
Authentication Indicators
Weight should be exactly 25.0g; diameter 37mm; crisp lettering; correct Paris mint marks; distinct 'ring' when tapped (silver resonance).
Origin & Maker
France; Minted by Monnaie de Paris. Designed by Augustin Dupré.
Era & Period
V Republic (1958-present). The Hercules design itself is a neoclassical motif originally by Augustin Dupré (late 18th century).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1967.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII economic stability of the French Fifth Republic and pays homage to the revolutionary ideals of the 1790s through its neoclassical design.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VF/XF). Visible surface contact marks, minor edge dings, and slight flattening of leaf details. No signs of cleaning or heavy corrosion.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver melt value (approx. $18-$22 USD based on spot price) with a small numismatic premium; retail approx. $25-$30 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or flip. Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprint oils.
Similar Items
France 5 Francs Semeuse (smaller silver coin), France 50 Francs Hercules (larger, 30g silver coin), and 20 Francs Napoleon (Gold).
Interesting Facts
The Hercules design has been used on French currency intermittently since 1795. Despite having a face value of 10 Francs, its intrinsic silver value exceeded its face value shortly after production ceased.