1867 France 20 Centimes Silver Coin, Napoleon III Empire Francais (Strasbourg Mint)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · Silver (White Metallic). Likely misidentified as gold due to lighting or tarnish, but this specific 1867 20 Cent issue is known only in silver.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of .835 fine silver (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of .835 fine silver (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper).
Gold Type
Silver (White Metallic). Likely misidentified as gold due to lighting or tarnish, but this specific 1867 20 Cent issue is known only in silver.
Weight
1.00 grams (Standard specification for 1867 20 Centimes)
Description
An authentic silver 20 Centimes piece from the Second French Empire under Napoleon III. The reverse features an ornate imperial crown as the central motif, flanked by the denomination and date. This coin represents the Latin Monetary Union standard of the mid-19th century.
Key Features
Imperial Crown motif, BB mint mark, date 1867, beaded border, reeded edge, .835 silver fineness.
Color & Finish
Greyish-white metallic silver with heavy dark patina/toning. Surface shows original luster obscured by oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
EMPIRE FRANCAIS, 20 CENT 1867, Mint mark 'BB' (Strasbourg Mint), Privy marks (Bee and Anchor/Stork)
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 15.0 mm; Thickness: 0.65 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard struck coinage.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge). No physical clasp as it is a coin.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Solid circular metal planchet with reeded edge detail.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck planchet from steel dies. Fine detail in the crown's cross and velvet lining. Symmetrical beaded rim and consistent reeding.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style, proper spacing of 'EMPIRE FRANCAIS' lettering, accurate 'BB' Strasbourg mint mark placement, and patina consistent with aged continental silver.
Origin & Maker
France, Strasbourg Mint (indicated by the 'BB' mint mark).
Era & Period
Second French Empire (Napoleonic Era, 1852-1870). High-Victorian contemporary.
Age Estimate
Struck in 1867 (157 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of French imperial power under Napoleon III and the transition to standardized industrial currency in Europe.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Substantial surface toning/tarnish, visible wear on the high points of the crown, and minor edge nicks. Hallmark clarity is still legible.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: ~$0.75 USD; Numismatic/Retail Value: $5.00 - $15.00 USD depending on final grade and buyer interest.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Use an airtight coin capsule. Avoid PVC flips which cause 'green slime' corrosion. Handle by the edges only.
Similar Items
1867 50 Centimes (larger), 1867 5 Francs (significantly larger), or silver coins from Belgium or Switzerland of the same era.
Interesting Facts
The 1867 20 Centimes was part of the Latin Monetary Union, a 19th-century attempt to unify European currencies to a single silver/gold standard, a precursor to the Euro.