France 50 Francs Gold Napoleon III (Laureate Head) 1866-BB
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Traditional 19th-century French alloy with a slight warm reddish cast due to copper)
Purity: 21.6K / .900 Fine (90% pure gold, 10% copper alloy)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K / .900 Fine (90% pure gold, 10% copper alloy)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional 19th-century French alloy with a slight warm reddish cast due to copper)
Weight
16.13 grams gross weight; 14.51 grams (approx. 0.4667 troy oz) net pure gold
Description
An exquisite example of Second Empire numismatics, this 50 Franc gold piece represents the height of Napoleon III's reign. The reverse features the ornate Imperial Arms—a shielded eagle atop crossed scepters, draped in an ermine mantle and crowned with the imperial crown. The 1866 'BB' Strasbourg issue is noted for its beautiful strike quality and historical importance as a high-denomination trade coin of the Latin Monetary Union era.
Key Features
BB Mint Mark (Strasbourg), Laureate Head design period, Imperial Coat of Arms reverse, French 50 Franc denomination
Color & Finish
Deep, rich orange-yellow with a semi-glossy luster and original sunset toning/patina consistent with age
Hallmarks & Stamps
BB mint mark (Strasbourg), Bee (Privy mark for Director), Anchor (Privy mark for Engraver General Albert-Désiré Barre), 50 FR (Denomination), EMPIRE FRANÇAIS
Dimensions Estimate
28 mm diameter; approximately 1.9 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features high-relief Die-struck numismatic engravings of the Imperial Coat of Arms
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and to prevent metal shaving or clipping
Chain & Links
Standard reeded edge (vertical serrations) around the circumference
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking typical of mid-19th century French mints; high relief engraving with exquisite detail in the heraldic mantle and the Legion of Honour medal hanging at the bottom.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the reeded edge, specific BB and privy mark placements, consistent font style for '1866', distinct copper-gold color of authentic 90% French gold
Origin & Maker
France; Strasbourg Mint (BB mark); Engraved by Jean-Jacques Barre and Albert-Désiré Barre
Era & Period
Second French Empire (1852–1870), specifically late Napoleonic period (1866)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1866; 158 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic dominance of the French Empire and the foundations of the Latin Monetary Union, which standardize European gold coinage before WWI.
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated (AU) grade; notable sharp details in the feathers and crown, minor surface contact marks, slight wear on high points, original field luster preserved
Value Estimate
Melt value plus a numismatic premium of 10-25%. Market value typically ranges between $950 - $1,150 USD depending on the spot price of gold.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean. Store in a PVC-free air-tight capsule. Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves to prevent oil transfer.
Similar Items
20 Francs Napoleon III, 100 Francs Napoleon III, Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli (similar purity and LMU standard)
Interesting Facts
Napoleon III changed the coin design from 'Bare Head' to 'Laureate Head' after 1860 to signify his military successes and domestic stability.