1859-A French 10 Francs Gold Coin Napoleon III (Empire Français)
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold with a slight copper-toned reddish hue characteristic of historic French coinage
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness), approximately 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness), approximately 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight copper-toned reddish hue characteristic of historic French coinage
Weight
Gross weight of 3.2258 grams with an actual gold content (AGW) of 0.0933 troy ounces
Description
An authentic 1859 gold 10 Francs piece from the Second French Empire. The reverse depicts a detailed laurel wreath encircling the denomination and date, representative of the Napoleonic era's neoclassical aesthetic. This specimen showcases the 'Imperial' style that dominated mid-19th century European commerce.
Key Features
Laureate reverse design, 'A' mint mark, 'EMPIRE FRANÇAIS' legend, and distinct 19th-century French die-engraving style
Color & Finish
Deep, warm yellow-orange gold; features a semi-lustrous circulating finish with natural surface patina and micro-abrasions consistent with age
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'EMPIRE FRANÇAIS' and '10 FRANCS 1859' on the reverse; 'A' mint mark (Paris Mint) visible at the bottom of the wreath
Dimensions Estimate
Standard diameter of 19 mm with a thickness of approximately 0.75 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features classical numismatic engraving including a laurel wreath and beaded border
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge finishing (vertical ridges) for security and to prevent metal clipping or shaving
Chain & Links
Not applicable (solid gold planchet construction with struck design and reeded rim)
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by high-pressure steam-powered coin presses; features die-engraving by Barre with excellent symmetry and a consistent beaded border
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for Paris Mint 1859 series, crisp reeded edges, characteristic 90% gold color patina, and accurate weight/diameter ratio for the 10 Franc denomination
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), identified by the 'A' mint mark
Era & Period
Second French Empire (1852-1870) under the reign of Napoleon III
Age Estimate
Struck in 1859; approximately 165 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the Second French Empire and Napoleon III's influence on European economics; a symbol of French prestige and the transition toward modern standardized coinage
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VG-F); significant wear to the higher points of the wreath, visible contact marks and surface scratches consistent with circulation, but legends remain legible
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content (melt value) plus a small numismatic premium; typically retails between $220 - $260 USD depending on the spot price of gold
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free archival flip or capsule to prevent further scratching and environmental toning
Similar Items
20 Francs 'Napoleon' gold coins (heavier 6.45g version), Swiss 10 Vreneli gold coins, and contemporary British Sovereigns of the Victorian era
Interesting Facts
The 10 Francs gold coin was often referred to as a 'Demi-Napoléon.' These coins were the backbone of the Latin Monetary Union, which sought to unify European currencies in the 19th century.