French 1913 2 Francs Sower Silver Coin (Likely Silver, Non-Gold)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · Not applicable; silver alloy (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). Visible metal shows a cool, lustrous grey patina characteristic of circulated silver.
Purity: Non-gold; historically minted in .835 silver. No gold content or karat rating is present according to monetary standards for this issue.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; historically minted in .835 silver. No gold content or karat rating is present according to monetary standards for this issue.
Gold Type
Not applicable; silver alloy (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). Visible metal shows a cool, lustrous grey patina characteristic of circulated silver.
Weight
10.00 grams (Standard official weight for this denomination and year).
Description
A classic piece of French monetary history, the 1913 2 Francs coin features the iconic 'Sower' motif designed by Oscar Roty. This image of a woman sowing seeds into a sunrise became a symbol of French national identity and remained on currency for over a century. The reverse displays an olive branch, symbolizing peace, alongside the French national motto of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
Key Features
Oscar Roty's 'Sower' design, .835 silver fineness, reeded edge, and the specific 1913 pre-war date.
Color & Finish
Cool silver-grey with a satin to matte circulated finish. Shows characteristic 'Sower' design toning and surface smoothing from handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse/Reverse features: 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE', '2 FRANCS', date '1913'. Mint marks for Paris (Cornucopia) and the Engraver General (Torch) are present near the date.
Dimensions Estimate
27.0 mm diameter; 1.63 mm thickness (Standard French 2 Francs specifications).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin relies on relief engraving of the 'Sower' (La Semeuse) and olive branches.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) for security against clipping/filing of the metal.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; reeded coin edge with consistent vertical milling.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by steam-powered or toggle press; high-relief engraving showing detailed drapery and botanical elements on the olive branch.
Authentication Indicators
Correct lettering font for the Paris Mint, presence of cornucopia and torch privy marks, and distinctive wear patterns consistent with century-old silver coinage.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by Oscar Roty.
Era & Period
Third Republic of France (La Belle Époque era). Minted just prior to the outbreak of World War I.
Age Estimate
Specifically 1913 (111 years old as of current date).
Cultural Significance
Represents the prosperity and artistic height of France's Third Republic and 'La Belle Époque' before the economic shifts caused by the World Wars.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (VG/F). Visual evidence of surface scratches, minor dings on the rim, and flattening of the high points on the olive leaves and lettering.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by silver melt value (~8g ASW) plus a small numismatic premium. Total estimated market value $10-$20 USD depending on exact silver spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation/tarnish.
Similar Items
1 Franc Sower (5.0g silver), 50 Centimes Sower (2.5g silver), and the later Nickel 1960s 2 Francs (which contains no silver).
Interesting Facts
The 'Sower' design was so popular that it was adapted for the new Franc in 1960 and later influenced the design of French Euro coins.