Napoléon I 5 Francs Silver Coin 1812 (Note: This is Silver, not Gold)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · Not Gold; French Imperial Silver Alloy
Purity: Not Gold; 90.0% Silver (900/1000 Fineness)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
Not Gold; 90.0% Silver (900/1000 Fineness)
Gold Type
Not Gold; French Imperial Silver Alloy
Weight
25.0 grams (Standard Mint Weight)
Description
An authentic silver 5 Francs coin from the reign of Napoléon I. The reverse features a laurel wreath tied with a bow, encircling the denomination '5 FRANCS'. The perimeter is inscribed with 'EMPIRE FRANÇAIS' and the date '1812'. This piece represents the peak of Napoleonic power and the standardization of French currency.
Key Features
Laurel wreath reverse, Paris 'A' mint mark, 1812 date, iconic First Empire typography.
Color & Finish
Naturally toned grey-blue patina over silver; matte surfaces with circulation wear and historical oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
EMPIRE FRANÇAIS, 5 FRANCS, 1812, Rooster (Paris Mint Director Mark), Mint Mark 'A' (Paris), crowned R (likely an unofficial mark or counterstamp).
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 37 mm; Thickness of 2.5 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief-struck metal engraving only.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (Standard French coinage design of the period).
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid metal coin disc with reeded perimeter.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using screw press technology at the Paris Mint; features deep relief and high-quality die engraving by Pierre-Joseph Tiolier.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike characteristics for 1812; natural heavy toning inconsistent with plated fakes; clear Rooster and Mint 'A' marks; weight-to-diameter ratio appears correct for 90% silver.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of France, Paris Mint (indicated by 'A' mint mark).
Era & Period
First French Empire (1804–1814); Napoleonic Era.
Age Estimate
Issued in 1812; approximately 212 years old.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the French Metrication of money and the spread of the Napoleonic Code and French influence across Europe through currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) circulation grade. Evidence of significant surface abrasions, localized pitting/damage near the center, and heavy rim wear.
Value Estimate
Melt Value (Silver): ~$20. Numismatic Value: $50 - $120 depending on buyer interest and authentic assessment of the counterstamps.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; the patina accounts for its numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule.
Similar Items
1812 40 Francs (Gold), 1812 20 Francs (Gold), or later 5 Francs pieces of Napoleon III.
Interesting Facts
The 1812 5 Francs was minted during Napoleon's fateful invasion of Russia. These coins were used to pay the Grande Armée during one of history's most significant military campaigns.