French Third Republic 5 Centimes Bronze Coin (Not Silver)
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Pattern: Cérès Head / Triad of Liberty, Equality, Fraternity Pattern
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Material
Bronze (95 percent copper, 4 percent tin, 1 percent zinc)
Dimensions
Diameter: 25 mm, Weight: approximately 5 grams
Description
An authentic French 5 centimes bronze coin featuring the national motto 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' encircling a central denomination of '5 CENTIMES' framed by an agricultural wreath tied with a ribbon at the base. This piece is composed of bronze, not silver, and represents the standard fractional currency of the French Third Republic.
Key Features
Prominent '5 CENTIMES' denomination, wreath motif, French revolutionary motto, and Paris Mint 'A' mark
Material & Composition
Bronze (95 percent copper, 4 percent tin, 1 percent zinc)
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with raised rim, beaded border, and stamped lettering
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'A' for Paris, along with the engraver's privy mark
Construction Details
Machine-struck coin using high-pressure coining presses
Functional Features
Standard circulating low-denomination currency piece
Handle & Grip Details
None applicable; standard flat circular coin format
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision industrial minting typical of late 19th-century European state mints, featuring sharp die strikes and uniform flans.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter, weight, alloy appearance, legible lettering matching authentic Paris mint issues of the Third Republic, and standard reeded or plain edge characteristics.
Origin & Manufacturing
Paris, France
Era & Period
French Third Republic (1870-1940)
Age Estimate
Late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1871-1898)
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-Franco-Prussian War stabilization of French currency and the enduring values of the French Revolution embedded in everyday commerce.
Condition Notes
Moderate circulated condition with typical surface wear, brown patina, minor abrasions, and oxidation consistent with historic bronze coinage. Grade is roughly Fine to Very Fine.
Value Estimate
Low numismatic value, generally ranging from $2 to $15 USD depending on precise year and exact grade, primarily valued as a historic collectible.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry, stable environment using inert coin flips or capsules. Do not clean or polish, as harsh cleaning destroys historic patina and numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
Other contemporary French bronze denominations including 1 centime, 2 centimes, and 10 centimes coins of the Cérès or Dupuis types.
Interesting Facts
The design features the allegory of Cérès, representing the French Republic, and was widely circulated during the early decades of the Third Republic following the fall of the Second French Empire.