French 10 Francs 'Le Panthéon' Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official mint of the French Republic and the oldest continuously operating French institution.
Pattern: Panthéon series, designed by Georges Guiraud (obverse) and Dieudonné (reverse). Circulation and commemorative coinage.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official mint of the French Republic and the oldest continuously operating French institution.
Material
90% Silver (.900 fineness), 10% Copper. A common silver alloy for 20th-century European circulation coinage.
Dimensions
Diameter: 26mm; Thickness: 2mm; Total Weight: 10.0 grams (ASW: 0.2894 troy oz).
Description
An iconic piece of mid-century French numismatics, the silver 10 Francs Panthéon depicts the famous neoclassical mausoleum in Paris. Known for its heavy weight and substantial silver content compared to later nickel-clad issues, it represents the economic stability of the Fifth Republic.
Key Features
The architecturally detailed depiction of the Panthéon dome; high silver purity (.900); distinct 'RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' lettering in a modern serif font.
Material & Composition
90% Silver (.900 fineness), 10% Copper. A common silver alloy for 20th-century European circulation coinage.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike finish. Features the Panthéon in Paris on the obverse with the inscription 'RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'. The reverse typically features an olive branch or wheat ear and the denomination.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and various engraver privy marks (such as the dolphin or bird depending on the year).
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage; machine-milled edge. Struck by high-pressure steam or electric presses at the Paris Mint.
Functional Features
Standard currency for legal tender in France prior to the Euro transition; serrated (reeded) edge for counterfeit and clipping deterrence.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item)
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial engraving; the die work shows excellent perspective on the columns and portico of the Panthéon.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter-to-relief ratio; specific font used in French minting; characteristic patina of .900 silver; machine-milled edge consistent with Paris Mint production.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris. Manufactured at the Monnaie de Paris facility using French industrial metallurgical standards.
Era & Period
French Fifth Republic (Post-WWII / Modern Era). Specifically the period of the New Franc introduced by Charles de Gaulle.
Age Estimate
Circa 1964-1973. This specific 'Panthéon' 10 Franc silver design was minted primarily in the mid-1960s to early 70s.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes French pride and the monumental history of Paris; a tangible relic of the pre-Euro French economy and the Gaullist era of prestige.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in 'Circulated' or 'Very Fine' condition with visible surface bag marks, moderate tarnish (toning), and slight softening of the architectural details on the dome.
Value Estimate
Usually valued close to its melt value (spot silver price) plus a 10-20% premium. Approximately $8.00 - $15.00 USD depending on the current silver market.
Care & Maintenance
For numismatic value, do not polish or use chemical dips. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
10 Franc Hercules (larger, .900 silver), 5 Franc Semeuse (.835 silver), and the later Nickel 10 Franc industrial designs.
Interesting Facts
The silver 10 Francs was eventually replaced by much smaller, bimetallic coins due to the rising price of silver in the 1970s, making these common 'hoarding' coins for silver stackers.