French 5 Francs 1873 Hercules Group Type Silver Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · N/A - Silver Coin (Lustrous White/Grey)
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This is a 0.900 Fineness Silver coin containing 90% silver and 10% copper. There is no gold content in this specific 1873 5 Francs denomination.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This is a 0.900 Fineness Silver coin containing 90% silver and 10% copper. There is no gold content in this specific 1873 5 Francs denomination.
Gold Type
N/A - Silver Coin (Lustrous White/Grey)
Weight
25.00 grams total weight (Contains 22.5 grams or 0.7234 troy oz of pure silver)
Description
A classic specimen of the French Third Republic coinage. The reverse features the denomination '5 FRANCS' and date '1873' encircled by a wreath composed of an oak branch and a laurel branch tied with a ribbon. It represents the post-monarchist return to the 'Hercules' design group standard. The coin is a heavy silver piece that served as the backbone of trade in the Latin Monetary Union.
Key Features
Mint mark 'A', Hercules design lineage, 90% silver composition, large module size, and the significant 1873 post-war date.
Color & Finish
Silver-white metallic hue with natural oxidation and circulating toning. Surface shows a duller grey patina in recessed areas with some remaining metallic luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint marks: 'A' (Paris Mint). Legend: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE'. Reverse marks: '5 FRANCS 1873' surrounded by a laurel and oak wreath. Edge usually carries raised lettering 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE'.
Dimensions Estimate
37.0 mm diameter; 2.5 mm thickness (Standard French 5 Francs module)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or Lettered Edge (No clasp)
Chain & Links
N/A - Solid coin casting/strike
Craftsmanship Details
V-groove struck from steel dies; machine-pressed during the industrial expansion of the Paris Mint. Features high-relief typography and balanced neoclassical wreath rendering.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (should be 25g), diameter (37mm), specific 'A' mint mark for Paris, and the characteristic font and spacing of the 1873 date. Note: This is silver, not gold.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint indicated by 'A' mark)
Era & Period
French Third Republic (1870-1940); 19th Century numismatics
Age Estimate
Issued in 1873 (151 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the stability of the French Republic following the Franco-Prussian War. The use of the laurel (victory) and oak (longevity) symbolizes the rebirth of the nation.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extra Fine (XF) circulation grade. Visible surface scratches, minor rim dings, and flattening of high points on the wreath leaves and digits. No signs of major corrosion.
Value Estimate
Silver melt value (~$20-$25 USD) plus a numismatic premium. Total market value approximately $35-$55 USD depending on buyer demand and exact grade confirmation.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free coin flip or archival capsule to prevent further oxidation/tarnish. Do not clean or polish, as this removes numismatic value; only use mild distilled water if necessary.
Similar Items
1873 Gold 20 Francs (Lucky Angel), US Morgan Silver Dollar, Italian 5 Lire, Belgian 5 Francs.
Interesting Facts
The 5 Francs silver coin was part of the Latin Monetary Union, meaning it was interchangeable with silver coins from Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, and Greece. It was the 'Silver Dollar' of Europe.