French 5 Francs Semeuse (Sower) Reissue Coin, 1996
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official mint of the French Republic and one of the world's oldest continuously running institutions.
Pattern: Semeuse (The Sower) design by Oscar Roty, originally introduced in 1897 and utilized for the Nouveau Franc reissue from 1960 onwards.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official mint of the French Republic and one of the world's oldest continuously running institutions.
Material
Nickel-clad Cupro-Nickel (Note: Unlike the 1960-1969 issues which were .835 Silver, the 1996 issue is a base metal circulating coin with no silver content).
Dimensions
Diameter: 29.0 mm; Thickness: 2.0 mm; Weight: 10.0 grams.
Description
A classic example of French numismatic art, this 5 Franc piece displays the iconic Sower motif. While the design is a revival of the Art Nouveau masterpieces of the late 19th century, this 1996 specimen represents the final years of the Franc currency before the transition to the Euro. The reverse is dominated by a nested wreath of oak and laurel branches, symbolizing strength and peace, framing the bold denomination and date.
Key Features
Oscar Roty signature on obverse (not shown), iconic wreath reverse, 'Bee' privy mark specific to the mid-90s, nickel-based white metal coloration.
Material & Composition
Nickel-clad Cupro-Nickel (Note: Unlike the 1960-1969 issues which were .835 Silver, the 1996 issue is a base metal circulating coin with no silver content).
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish with a reeded edge. Obverse features the Sower (La Semeuse) walking against a rising sun. Reverse (shown) features a laurel and oak wreath, the denomination, and the date.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and the 'Bee' privy mark (Director Pierre Rodier, 1994-2000). Legend: REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage produced on high-speed minting presses with a distinctive reeded edge for security and grip.
Functional Features
Standard circulating legal tender for the French Republic prior to the adoption of the Euro in 2002; reeded edge serves to prevent clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
Circular coin form; reeded (milled) edge designed for tactile recognition and to prevent metal shaving/fraud.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision machine striking; the clarity of the wreath veins and the sharp lettering indicates high-quality industrial minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the 'Bee' and 'Cornucopia' marks flanking the date; correct font style for the '5' and 'FRANCS'; standard French coin alignment (upside down reverse relative to obverse).
Origin & Manufacturing
France, manufactured at the Pessac facility of the Monnaie de Paris.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic of France (Post-1958 Reform); Modern Numismatic Period.
Age Estimate
Dated 1996; late 20th-century production.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French agricultural heritage and republican values, the Semeuse remained a constant presence in French pockets for over a century.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (Circulated). Shows minor surface contact marks ('bag marks') and light dulling of the original mint luster, but no significant corrosion or wear on high points.
Value Estimate
Face/Exchange value is defunct; market value is $1.00 - $3.00 USD for circulated examples; primarily of sentimental or novice collector value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with silver polish as this is a nickel-based coin; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent environmental toning/oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1960-1969 5 Francs (Silver .835), 1970-2001 5 Francs (Nickel), and various 'Hercule' 10/50 Franc silver bullion coins.
Interesting Facts
The Sower design is so beloved in France that it was adapted for the French Euro cent coins after the Franc was retired. While early 1960s 5 Francs are silver, collectors often mistake these later nickel versions for precious metal due to their identical appearance.