1867 French Empire Napoleon III 20 Centimes Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris), under the reign of Emperor Napoleon III. Significant as the oldest continuous minting institution in France.
Pattern: Second French Empire Laurel Wreath / Imperial Crown series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris), under the reign of Emperor Napoleon III. Significant as the oldest continuous minting institution in France.
Material
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness / 165/1000 alloy). Contains 1.00g total weight with approximately 0.0268 troy oz of actual silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 15 mm; Weight: 1.00 grams; Thickness: approximately 0.7 mm.
Description
A miniature silver masterpiece of the Second Empire, this 20-centime piece represents the pinnacle of French numismatic art before the fall of the monarchy. The reverse is dominated by the majestic Imperial Crown with flying lappets, symbolizing the authority of Napoleon III. Despite its small size, the detail in the crown's cross and velvet lining is remarkable, framed by crisp typography and a protective beaded rim.
Key Features
The 'BB' mint mark indicating the Strasbourg workshop and the '.835' silver standard which was a new lower fineness introduced to discourage hoarding and melting.
Material & Composition
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness / 165/1000 alloy). Contains 1.00g total weight with approximately 0.0268 troy oz of actual silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a reeded edge. Features the Imperial Crown of Napoleon III, beaded border, and 'EMPIRE FRANÇAIS' inscription on the reverse. Obverse typically features the laureate head of Napoleon III.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'BB' (Strasbourg Mint) or 'A' (Paris); this specific piece features 'BB' below the date. Small symbols (privy marks) including a bee (Director) and an anchor (Engraver-General Albert-Désiré Barre).
Construction Details
Machine-struck on a prepared silver planchet using high-pressure steel dies in a steam-powered or hydraulic toggle press.
Functional Features
Serrations (reeding) on the edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the silver; legal tender currency of the Second French Empire.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic item.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial coinage; features the precise engraving style of Albert-Désiré Barre, known for the symmetry and clear legibility of his small-denomination dies.
Authentication Indicators
Correct alignment of the 'BB' mint mark; crispness of the date digits; authentic natural toning patterns; accurate diameter of 15mm.
Origin & Manufacturing
France; Strasbourg Mint (indicated by the BB mint mark). Crafted under the French tradition of high-relief numismatic engraving.
Era & Period
Second French Empire (1852–1870), specifically the Late Imperial period characterized by the transition to the Latin Monetary Union standards.
Age Estimate
Dated 1867; produced during the mid-to-late 19th century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic expansion and imperial ambition of France under Napoleon III; served as the everyday 'change' for the French citizenry in the years leading up to the Franco-Prussian War.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible tarnish in the crevices (toning), minor surface scratches ('bag marks'), and softening of the high points on the crown's arches. No major rim dings or evidence of cleaning.
Value Estimate
$5 to $25 USD depending on the specific wear grade and the current price of silver, though numismatic rarity at Strasbourg can occasionally command a premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with chemical silver dips as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival acid-free paper envelope to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1867 50 Centimes (larger, same design); 1867 10 Centimes (bronze, different design); Swiss 20 Rappen of the same era.
Interesting Facts
The 1867 issue is part of the Latin Monetary Union (LMU), a 19th-century attempt to unify European currencies into a single system based on the French Franc, an early precursor to the Euro.