1831 France 5 Francs Louis-Philippe I Silver Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None. The metal is Silver with a natural metallic gray luster and aged patina.
Purity: 0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver (.900 Fineness) and 10% Copper.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (Non-Gold). This item is composed of 90% Silver (.900 Fineness) and 10% Copper.
Gold Type
None. The metal is Silver with a natural metallic gray luster and aged patina.
Weight
25.00 grams (Standard specification for French 5 Francs silver coinage).
Description
A historic French 5 Francs silver coin featuring a reverse design of a laurel wreath encircling the denomination and date. This coin was minted during a transition in French history following the July Revolution, reflecting the reign of the 'Citizen King'.
Key Features
Denominated '5 FRANCS', dated 1831, 'B' mint mark for Rouen, and a laurel crown reverse design typical of the Period I coinage of Louis-Philippe I.
Color & Finish
Silver-gray with surface toning. Features a circulated matte finish with visible handling marks and a duller luster consistent with age.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features a 'B' mint mark (Rouen Mint) and a 'Doge's Cap' privy mark (Nicolas-Pierre Tiolier). It is also stamped with the denomination '5 FRANCS' and the date '1831'.
Dimensions Estimate
37 mm in diameter with a thickness of approximately 2.3 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a primary metal alloy specimen.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The edge is lettered with the phrase 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE' (God Protects France).
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin possesses a solid circular planchet with a beaded rim border.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using a screw press or early steam press; features high-relief lettering and a symmetrical laurel wreath with distinct tie-ribbons at the base.
Authentication Indicators
The typography of 'FRANCS', the specific placement of the mint marks, and the characteristic wear patterns on 90% silver are consistent with a genuine 19th-century French strike.
Origin & Maker
France, Rouen Mint (indicated by the 'B' mark). Designed by Joseph-François Domard.
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830-1848). This specific 1831 issue represents the early reign of King Louis-Philippe I.
Age Estimate
Approximately 193 years old, minted in 1831.
Cultural Significance
Represents the stabilization of the French monarchy into a constitutional form after the 1830 revolution, emphasizing national identity over absolute royal power.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Significant surface scratches, minor dents on the rim, and flattening of the laurel leaf details due to circulation wear.
Value Estimate
Approximately $25 to $45 USD based on silver melt value (~$20) plus a modest numismatic premium for the specific 1831-B date in circulated condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish, as this removes numismatic patina and reduces collector value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1831 5 Francs from Paris (A mint mark) or Lille (W mint mark); also comparable to the Belgian 5 Francs of the same era.
Interesting Facts
The 5 Franc silver coin was the workhorse of the French economy for decades and served as the basis for the Latin Monetary Union standard.