Napoleon III 50 Francs Or (Tête Laurée) Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Traditional French alloy with a slight reddish/orange hue due to copper content)
Purity: 21.6K (90.0% Gold, 10.0% Copper); Fineness: .900
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90.0% Gold, 10.0% Copper); Fineness: .900
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional French alloy with a slight reddish/orange hue due to copper content)
Weight
16.13 grams gross weight; fine gold content 14.51 grams (0.4665 troy oz)
Description
An iconic piece of French monetary history, this 50-Franc gold coin features the laureate portrait of Emperor Napoleon III. Unlike the earlier 'bare head' versions, the laurel wreath signifies military and political success following the 1859 Italian campaign. This specific specimen shows heavy circulation wear but retains the dignified profile of the Second Empire.
Key Features
Laureate head portrait; 'A' mint mark for Paris; 'BARRE' engraver signature; specific 28mm diameter distinguishing it from the smaller 20-Franc coin.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow with warm copper undertones; original luster muted by significant circulating wear and surface oxidation producing a dark greyish-brown patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR'; Engraver name 'BARRE' below bust; Mint mark 'A' (Paris) visible to the lower right.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 28 mm; Thickness: ~1.8 mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief engraving of Napoleon III with laurel wreath transition.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and to prevent metal shaving/clipping.
Chain & Links
Standard circular coin planchet with reeded (milled) edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using high-pressure steam presses typical of the 1860s Paris Mint. Precision engraving by Désiré-Albert Barre, exhibiting classical French realism in the facial structure and hair detailing.
Authentication Indicators
Correct lettering font and spacing; visible 'A' mint mark; 'BARRE' signature placement; consistent profile features. However, the grey color suggests heavy surface contamination or possible base metal plating; XRF testing is highly recommended given the atypical surface color.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint); Designer: Désiré-Albert Barre.
Era & Period
Second French Empire (specifically the 'Tête Laurée' or Laureate Head period, 1861-1870).
Age Estimate
Circa 1861-1870; definitively dated to this decade based on the laurel wreath portrait style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the Second French Empire's economic expansion and the transformation of Paris under Haussmann; a symbol of 19th-century French global soft power.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Good (G) range; significant surface wear to the high points of the hair and wreath; substantial overall toning and surface scratching; some rim dings present. Grade: VF-20 (circulated).
Value Estimate
Values trade primarily on gold spot price plus a small premium (3-8%) due to condition. Melt value estimated at ~$1,000-$1,100 (subject to market); collectible value up to $1,250 in better condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or capsule to prevent further scratching.
Similar Items
Napoleon III 20 Francs (smaller, 6.45g); Napoleon III 100 Francs (larger, 32.25g); Generic Swiss 20 Franc Vreneli; British Sovereign.
Interesting Facts
The 50 Francs was the 'intermediate' denomination, less common than the 20 Francs (Napoleon) but more accessible than the massive 100 Francs coin. It was part of the Latin Monetary Union standards.