France 1859-A 50 Centimes Napoleon III (Note: This is Silver, not Gold)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None; the item is Silver. The tarnished appearance can sometimes mimic aged gold in low light, but this is a standard silver issues.
Purity: 0% Gold. This is 90% Silver (.900 Fineness). It contains 2.25g of pure silver.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% Gold. This is 90% Silver (.900 Fineness). It contains 2.25g of pure silver.
Gold Type
None; the item is Silver. The tarnished appearance can sometimes mimic aged gold in low light, but this is a standard silver issues.
Weight
2.5 grams total weight (Standard mint specification).
Description
A historical circulation coin from the reign of Napoleon III. The reverse features the denomination and date within a wreath of olive and oak leaves, signifying peace and strength.
Key Features
Paris 'A' mint mark, 'Empire Francais' legend, and mid-19th-century French numismatic styling.
Color & Finish
Tarnished silver grey with dark peripheral toning and a semi-matte surface from circulation wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A (Paris Mint mark), 50 CENT. 1859, EMPIRE FRANCAIS, and Barre (engraver's mark) on the obverse.
Dimensions Estimate
18 mm in diameter, 1 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Decorative elements consist of a central laurel wreath tied with a ribbon.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded edge).
Chain & Links
Not applicable.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at the Paris mint; features high-relief engraving and a reeded edge to prevent clipping.
Authentication Indicators
Weight-to-size ratio matches standard French silver specifications; typography and mint marks are consistent with known specimens from 1859.
Origin & Maker
France, Paris Mint (indicated by the 'A' mint mark). Designed by Albert-Désiré Barre.
Era & Period
Second French Empire (1852-1870) under Napoleon III.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1859; approximately 165 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the Second French Empire and the modernization of the French economy and currency.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (approx. Fine to Very Fine). Visible wear on high points of the leaves and flat fields with surface scratches.
Value Estimate
$5 to $25 USD depending on the buyer. Melt value of silver is approximately $2.00, but historical value carries a premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation/tarnish.
Similar Items
50 Centimes 1853-1863 (Bare Head) or 1864-1869 (Laureate Head) types. Note the 5 Franco Gold coins of the same era are smaller (14mm).
Interesting Facts
Napoleon III was the first President of France and the last monarch. This coin was used across the empire shortly before the adoption of the Latin Monetary Union.