French 5 Francs Silver Coin, Henri Lagriffoul Design
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by Henri Lagriffoul (1907-1981), a renowned French sculptor and Prix de Rome winner.
Pattern: Semeuse (Sower) reverse variant / Marianne Obverse. Pattern introduced in 1960 and produced until 1969.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by Henri Lagriffoul (1907-1981), a renowned French sculptor and Prix de Rome winner.
Material
Silver .835 fineness (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). This was the standard for French circulation silver in the mid-20th century.
Dimensions
Standard specifications for this coin: 29mm diameter, 12 grams total weight (10.02 grams ASW - Actual Silver Weight).
Description
This silver 5 Franc coin is a classic example of mid-century French numismatic art. It features the elegant, streamlined profile of Marianne, symbolizing liberty and reason, designed by sculptor Henri Lagriffoul. While its reverse (not shown) typically depicts the 'Sower' by Louis Oscar Roty, this obverse side is a hallmark of French national identity during the Fifth Republic. The silver content gives it a substantial feel and a soft luster that distinguishes it from later cupronickel replacements.
Key Features
Lagriffoul signature on obverse; Phrygian cap on Marianne; high-relief striking; .835 silver content noted by the specific metallic ring when dropped.
Material & Composition
Silver .835 fineness (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper). This was the standard for French circulation silver in the mid-20th century.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a matte/satin field. Obverse features the profile of Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic, wearing a Phrygian cap. Modernist, clean-lined Art Deco-influenced style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' around the perimeter. The designer\'s name 'LAGRIFFOUL' is clearly visible at the base of the neck. Mint marks (cornucopia for Paris Mint and an owl or dolphin for the engraver) are typically found on the reverse (not pictured).
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage produced on high-pressure steam or electric presses at the Monnaie de Paris.
Functional Features
Legal tender coin with reeded (milled) edges to prevent clipping and debasement. Large diameter designed for ease of handling in daily commerce.
Handle & Grip Details
None; round numismatic form intended for circulation or pocket carry.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck but based on a hand-carved master plaster model by Lagriffoul. The high quality of the die engraving allows for fine detail in the hair and the subtle contours of the face.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font and placement of 'LAGRIFFOUL'; consistent rim thickness; natural environmental tarnish patterns consistent with .835 silver alloy; correct diameter for 5 Franc denomination.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, manufactured at the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris), the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world.
Era & Period
French Fifth Republic (1958-present). This specific design reflects the transition to the 'New Franc' under Charles de Gaulle.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1969. The Lagriffoul Marianne obverse on the 5 Franc silver coin was only minted during this 10-year window.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war economic stabilization of France and the pride of the Fifth Republic. Marianne is one of the most significant symbols of Republican values in Europe.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible tarnish and surface 'circulation marks' (small scratches and dings). Moderate wear on the high points of Marianne\'s hair and the lettering. Some dark oxidation is present near the rim.
Value Estimate
$10 - $20 USD, primarily based on silver melt value plus a small numismatic premium depending on the specific year (visible on the reverse).
Care & Maintenance
For numismatic items, do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys collector value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free paper envelope to prevent further uneven tarnishing.
Similar Pieces
5 Franc Nickel (1970+), which lacks the silver luster; 10 Franc or 50 Franc Hercules silver coins, which are larger/heavier; 1 Franc silver coins (smaller).
Interesting Facts
The 5 Franc silver coin was so popular that when silver prices rose in the late 1960s, the public began hoarding them, forcing the French government to switch to nickel in 1970.