French Louis XVIII 5 Francs Silver Coin 1823-A (Lille Mint)
Coin (Numismatic/Historical Currency) · N/A (Silver Alloy). Likely contains 10% copper as a hardening agent.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% (900/1000) Fine Silver. It contains no gold content.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Historical Currency)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of 90% (900/1000) Fine Silver. It contains no gold content.
Gold Type
N/A (Silver Alloy). Likely contains 10% copper as a hardening agent.
Weight
25 grams (standard specification for this 5 Francs issue).
Description
A classic example of French Restoration coinage, this silver 5 Francs piece displays the crowned shield of France. While the user's prompt suggests a focus on gold, this specific artifact is a cornerstone of 19th-century silver currency, representing the return of the Monarchy following the Napoleonic Wars.
Key Features
Crowned Bourbon Shield with three fleur-de-lis; Lous XVIII legend (obverse, not shown); precise 90% silver standard; Michaut's signature design.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with a dull, matte patina typical of circulated silver. Significant surface oxidation and darkening (toning) consistent with age.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Denominated '5 F'; Dated '1823'; Mint Mark 'A' (Paris) alongside an anchor privy mark (Nicolas-Pierre Tiolier) and a CADUCEUS (Pierre-Joseph Tiolier).
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 37 mm; Thickness of approx 2.5 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin features an engraved Bourbon coat of arms (fleur-de-lis) under a royal crown, flanked by laurel branches.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) for counterfeit and clipping deterrence.
Chain & Links
N/A. Single solid struck planchet.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using a mechanical screw press. High relief on the coat of arms shows the advanced engineering of the Paris Mint during the early 19th century.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth for the Paris Mint; authentic 'A' mint mark positioning; reeded edge profile appears consistent with period screw-press minting.
Origin & Maker
France; Paris Mint (indicated by the 'A' mark). Engraved by Auguste-François Michaut.
Era & Period
Bourbon Restoration (1814–1830); specifically the reign of Louis XVIII.
Age Estimate
Issued in 1823; approximately 201 years old.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the transition from Revolutionary/Napoleonic radicalism back to traditional European monarchical stability.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Good Very Fine (GVF). Visible wear on the high points of the crown and branches, minor rim dings, and surface scratches. Dark toning indicates long-term environmental exposure.
Value Estimate
Approximately $30 - $60 USD based on silver melt value and numismatic premium for a common date in circulated condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean. Professional silver storage in PVC-free flips is recommended to prevent further corrosion.
Similar Items
Louis XVIII 20 Francs Gold Coin (which is 6.45g of .900 gold); Napoleon I 5 Francs; Charles X 5 Francs.
Interesting Facts
The '5 Francs' was the 'dollar' of its day in Europe and later became the standard for the Latin Monetary Union. Louis XVIII was the only French monarch to die while still on the throne in the 19th century.