French Semeuse (The Sower) .835 Silver 5 Francs Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), with the iconic design by Louis-Oscar Roty, originally introduced in 1897 and revived for the New Franc in 1960.
Pattern: Semeuse (The Sower) Design, introduced for silver coinage in 1960 and produced until 1969.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), with the iconic design by Louis-Oscar Roty, originally introduced in 1897 and revived for the New Franc in 1960.
Material
.835 Silver purity (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). Total weight approx 12.0 grams with a fine silver content of 0.3222 troy oz.
Dimensions
Diameter: 29.0 mm; Thickness: 2.0 mm; Weight: 12.0 grams (0.3858 oz).
Description
This iconic silver 5 Francs piece showcases the graceful 'Sower' walking through a field toward a radiant sun. It is a symbol of French agricultural heritage and republican values, rendered with fluid Art Nouveau lines that contrast beautifully with the industrial precision of the minting process. It serves as both a piece of currency and a miniature work of sculptural art.
Key Features
The 'RF' monogram, the distinct sunray background, the flowing Phrygian cap worn by the figure, and the specific .835 silver alloy indicating its pre-1970 vintage.
Material & Composition
.835 Silver purity (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). Total weight approx 12.0 grams with a fine silver content of 0.3222 troy oz.
Finish & Decoration
Struck satin/uncirculated finish featuring 'La Semeuse' (The Sower) walking left, sowing seeds into the wind with a rising sun in the background. Reverse features a cornucopia and branch motifs. Style is Art Nouveau/Republican French.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains the mark 'RF' (République Française). The edge is typically lettered with 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE'. Mint marks include the cornucopia for the Paris Mint and an owl/dolphin for the engraver general.
Construction Details
Machine-struck die-pressed coinage produced at the national mint. Features a reeded or lettered edge and high-relief striking.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the French Republic from 1960 to 2001 (demonetized upon Euro adoption). High silver resonance.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage); however, the raised rim is designed to protect the central relief and allow for stacking.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional die-sinking detail in the drapery of the figure's gown and the delicate rendering of the wheat ears on the reverse, characteristic of the Monnaie de Paris's high standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter of 29mm and weight of 12g. The crispness of the sunrays and the presence of the cornucopia mint mark are primary indicators of authenticity.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris; Manufactured by the Monnaie de Paris, the world's oldest continuously running minting institution.
Era & Period
Modern French Republic (Fifth Republic); Design era is a mid-century revival of the 1897 Art Nouveau motif.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1969 based on the silver composition and RF Semeuse motif.
Cultural Significance
A representation of France's transition into the 'New Franc' era under De Gaulle; it represents the stability of the French economy and the enduring nature of French artistic classicism.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine; shows light surface toning and minor contact marks consistent with circulation and handling. No significant edge nicks or gouges.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD depending on current silver spot price and numismatic grade.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent unsightly tarnishing or 'milk spots'.
Similar Pieces
5 Francs Nickel (post-1970) which lacks the weight and luster of silver; 1 Franc and 2 Francs silver Semeuse coins which are smaller in diameter; and the original 1897-1920 50 cent/1 franc/2 franc silver versions.
Interesting Facts
The model for 'The Sower' was Rosalinde Pesce. This design is so beloved in France that it was adapted for the French national side of the Euro cents shortly after this coin was retired.