French Second Empire 10 Francs Gold Coin, Napoleon III, 1859-A
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Significant as the oldest continuous minting institution in the world, renowned for high-quality strikes during the Second French Empire.
Pattern: Napoleon III (Bare Head) Reverse Type, 1854-1860 production period. Designed by Jean-Jacques Barre.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Significant as the oldest continuous minting institution in the world, renowned for high-quality strikes during the Second French Empire.
Material
90% Gold, 10% Copper (21.6 Karat Gold). Contains 0.0933 Troy Ounces (2.90 grams) of pure gold.
Dimensions
Diameter: 19 mm; Thickness: 0.8 mm; Gross Weight: 3.23 grams; Fine Gold Content: 2.903 grams.
Description
A stunning 1859 10 Francs gold coin representing the height of French numismatic art during the Second Empire. The reverse showcases '10 FRANCS 1859' framed by a lush laurel wreath, tied with a ribbon at the base. The legend 'EMPIRE FRANÇAIS' arches over the wreath, symbolizing the stability and wealth of the Napoleonic state. This piece represents the evolution of the French monetary system toward a global gold standard.
Key Features
Denomination 10 Francs, 1859 date, 'A' mint mark, 'Anchor' and 'Bee' privy marks, and 90% gold fineness indicator based on historical catalog standards.
Material & Composition
90% Gold, 10% Copper (21.6 Karat Gold). Contains 0.0933 Troy Ounces (2.90 grams) of pure gold.
Finish & Decoration
Mint circulation finish with a denticulated border. The reverse features a laurel wreath encircling the denomination and date. Typology exhibits Neoclassical balance characteristic of French Imperial coinage.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'A' indicates Paris Mint. Privy marks include the 'Anchor' for the Engraver General (Albert-Désiré Barre) and the 'Bee' for the Mint Master.
Construction Details
Die-struck on a prepared gold planchet using a mechanical steam press. Features a reeded edge (tranche striée) to prevent shaving/clipping.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the French Empire; part of the Latin Monetary Union standards intended for international exchange.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (Numismatic item). High-relief striking ensures ease of stackability and tactile identification.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking shows incredible detail in the veins of the laurel leaves. The symmetry of the lettering indicates sophisticated 19th-century pantograph engraving technology.
Authentication Indicators
Weight matches the 3.23g standard; specific 'A' mint mark placement is correct for the 1859 issue; letter spacing on 'FRANCS' is consistent with known Paris Mint dies of the 1850s.
Origin & Manufacturing
France; Paris Mint. Following the long-standing French tradition of decimalized currency and high-purity precious metal standards.
Era & Period
Second French Empire (1852-1870) under Napoleon III. This era was marked by the modernization of Paris and the expansion of the French economy.
Age Estimate
Dated 1859. This specific coin was produced during the mid-reign of Napoleon III before the transition to the 'Laureate Head' design in 1861.
Cultural Significance
Represented the gold-standard stability that allowed France to lead the Latin Monetary Union. These coins were used across Europe and remain symbols of 19th-century French prestige.
Condition Notes
The item displays even surface wear consistent with 'Very Fine' to 'Extremely Fine' condition. Light scratches are visible in the fields; there is no evidence of cleaning or mounting. The denticles remain sharp around the circumference.
Value Estimate
$220 - $280 USD depending on the spot price of gold and numismatic demand. Premiums are generally low due to high mintage of this particular year.
Care & Maintenance
Never clean with abrasives or silver polish (which can strip the gold patina). Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or an acid-free paper flip to prevent contact marks.
Similar Pieces
1859-BB (Strasbourg Mint), 20 Francs (full Napoléon), or later 10 Francs Ceres/Marianne designs which lack the Imperial motifs.
Interesting Facts
The 10 Franc gold coin was often referred to as a 'Demi-Napoléon.' In 1859, the Paris Mint produced over 15 million of these coins to fuel the booming industrial economy of France.