French 50 Francs Hercules Silver Coin (Hercule de Dupré)
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), designed by Augustin Dupré. The Paris Mint is the world's oldest continuously running minting institution, established in 864 AD.
Pattern: Hercules (Hercule) design, originally created for the French First Republic and revived for the Fifth Republic.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), designed by Augustin Dupré. The Paris Mint is the world's oldest continuously running minting institution, established in 864 AD.
Material
0.900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). Contains approximately 27 grams of pure silver (0.8681 troy oz).
Dimensions
39 mm in diameter, 2.7 mm thickness, gross weight of 30.0 grams.
Description
This large, high-purity silver coin is a masterpiece of French numismatic art. The 'Hercule' design symbolizes the strength of the French people protecting the republican values of Liberty and Equality. It is a heavy, substantial piece of silver that remains a favorite among European bullion investors and numismatists alike.
Key Features
Large 39mm diameter, signature of Augustin Dupré, 30g weight, and the iconic grouping of three figures.
Material & Composition
0.900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). Contains approximately 27 grams of pure silver (0.8681 troy oz).
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck with a semi-lustrous finish. Obverse features Hercules standing between the personifications of Liberty (holding a pike) and Equality (holding a level), inscribed with LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ. Beaded border.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and various engraver marks (different for years 1974-1980, such as the owl or dolphin). Signed 'Dupré' in cursive below the group.
Construction Details
Die-struck at the Paris Mint using high-pressure mechanical presses on prepared silver planchets. Reeds are applied to the edge via a collar during striking.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency in France before the Euro (nominal value 50 FRF), reed edge to prevent debasement/clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Coinage). High relief design provides tactile texture.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-quality master dies. The relief is exceptionally deep for 20th-century coinage, showcasing the anatomy of Hercules and the drapery of the goddesses.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Dupré signature, specific 30.0g weight consistency, 0.900 silver resonance ('ping test'), and accurate beaded border profile. Reeded edge should be uniform.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris (Pessac facility for modern strikes). Manufactured under the authority of the French Ministry of Finance.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Modern Era), design based on Neo-Classical motifs from the French Revolution.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1974 and 1980. This specific strike likely dates to the mid-1970s based on the crispness of the 'Dupré' signature.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring legacy of the French Revolution's ideals. Hercules was chosen by Dupré as a symbol of the 'people-as-hero.'
Condition Notes
Circulated to About Uncirculated. Visible surface bag marks and light scratches (contact marks). Moderate tarnish (patina) is forming in the recesses of the figures. Overall Grade: Very Good to Fine.
Value Estimate
$30.00 to $45.00 USD, primarily tracking the spot price of silver plus a 10-20% numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent 'PVC damage' (green film). Do not clean or polish, as this removes numismatic value; use only mild soap and water if necessary.
Similar Pieces
French 10 Francs Hercules (smaller, 0.900 silver), French 5 Francs Semeuse (The Sower), and the later 100 Francs Pantheon strikes.
Interesting Facts
The Hercules design has appeared on French coins across three centuries (18th, 19th, and 20th). It was pulled from circulation because the silver value surpassed the 50 Franc face value during the silver boom of 1979-1980.