French 5 Francs Silver Coin (Semeuse/Sower), 1960
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). It is the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world, founded in 864 AD.
Pattern: Semeuse (The Sower) pattern, originally designed by Oscar Roty in 1897 and reintroduced for the heavy franc in 1960.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). It is the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world, founded in 864 AD.
Material
Silver .835 fineness (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper).
Dimensions
Diameter: 29.00 mm; Thickness: 2.0 mm; Mass: 12.00 grams (contains approx. 10.02 grams of pure silver).
Description
The French 5 Francs Semeuse is an iconic piece of 20th-century silver currency. This 1960 specimen represents the return of silver to general circulation in France after decades of inflation-driven base metal usage. The reverse shown displays a lush, botanical arrangement of olive and oak branches paired with wheat stalks, symbolizing peace, strength, and prosperity under the national motto.
Key Features
High silver content for post-WWII European currency; 1960 first-year issue; signature botanical reverse design; '835' silver alloy signature.
Material & Composition
Silver .835 fineness (83.5% silver, 16.5% copper).
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike. The reverse features a bouquet of branches (olive, oak, and wheat), the denomination '5 FRANCS', and the French motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and 'Owl' or 'Wing' (Director's and Chief Engraver's privy marks) flanking the date; '1960' date stamp.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck on a planchet with a reeded edge.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the French Republic from 1960 until the Euro transition; reeded edge to prevent clipping or filing of the precious metal.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). Edge is reeded for tactile recognition and security.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die striking. The detail in the oak leaves and wheat husks demonstrates the superior artistry of the Paris Mint's engraving department during the mid-20th century.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (12g), diameter (29mm), and specific design sharpness consistent with Paris Mint dies. The 1960 date is consistent with the reintroduction of silver coinage.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint. Modern industrial minting traditions of the 20th century.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Contemporary era), following the 1960 currency reform (revaluation of the franc).
Age Estimate
Dated 1960 (first year of issue for this specific silver type).
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French economic recovery and stability in the 1960s. The 'Sower' design is one of the most famous images in French numismatics, appearing on coins and stamps for over a century.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF). Visible circulation wear on high points (leaf veins), minor surface 'bag marks' and scratches, light natural tarnish in recessed lettering.
Value Estimate
$8 - $15 USD based on silver spot prices and condition. Rare varieties or uncirculated (MS) specimens can fetch higher premiums.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors should avoid chemical polishing; clean only with mild soap and water if necessary. Store in PVC-free coin flips or capsules to prevent 'milk spots' or environmental damage.
Similar Pieces
1970-2001 5 Francs (Nickel/Cupronickel - looks similar but is not silver); 1 Franc and 2 Franc Sower coins (smaller, also .835 silver in certain years).
Interesting Facts
The 5 Franc coin was so popular that people began 'hoarding' it for its silver value, eventually leading to its replacement with a nickel-clad version in 1970.