French 5 Francs 'Hercule' Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Significant as the oldest continuous minting institution in the world, founded in 864.
Pattern: Hercule (Hercules) design by Augustin Dupré, originally introduced in the late 18th century and revived for the Fifth Republic.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Significant as the oldest continuous minting institution in the world, founded in 864.
Material
90.0% Silver, 10.0% Copper (.900 Fine Silver). Contains 22.5 grams of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 37 mm; Thickness: 2.3 mm; Total Weight: 25.0 grams (0.8038 troy oz).
Description
A classic French silver 5 Francs piece featuring the iconic Hercule group on the obverse (not fully visible) and a botanical wreath on the reverse. This coin is highly valued by silver stackers for its .900 purity and historical design by Augustin Dupré, symbolizing the strength and unity of the French Republic.
Key Features
Distinctive '5 FRANCS' denomination centered in a wreath, large 37mm module size, and .900 silver fineness.
Material & Composition
90.0% Silver, 10.0% Copper (.900 Fine Silver). Contains 22.5 grams of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Minted relief decoration featuring a laurel wreath and oak branch tied with a ribbon. The reverse text includes the French national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Struck with '5 FRANCS', year of issue (partial '19' visible), and various mint marks including the 'Cornucopia' (Paris Mint mark) and the Graveur Général's mark.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck using high-pressure hydraulic presses at the Paris Mint. Features a lettered edge with 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE'.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the French Republic at the time of issue; currently widely used as a silver investment/bullion vehicle.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic object.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking with clear, crisp lettering and well-defined leaf veins in the wreath, typical of 20th-century industrialized minting.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for '5 FRANCS', alignment of the laurel and oak leaves, and characteristic silver luster visible beneath the tarnish.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint (Pessac facility). Produced following the traditional standards of the French monetary system.
Era & Period
Fifth French Republic (1958-Present). Specifically, the 1960s-1970s silver coinage era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1969. The '19' and visible '5 FRANCS' text indicate the silver issue produced before the nickel transition.
Cultural Significance
Represents the last large-scale silver circulating coinage in France before the move to base metal and eventually the Euro.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine. Shows moderate circulation wear, surface scratches, and typical grayish tarnish (toning) found on coins stored in bags.
Value Estimate
€15 - €25 based on current silver spot price and numismatic condition. Price fluctuates directly with the global silver market.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or tubes to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
5 Francs Semeuse (Smaller, .835 silver), 10 Francs Hercule (Larger, .900 silver), and 50 Francs Hercule (Largest, .900 silver).
Interesting Facts
The Hercule design is one of the longest-running in numismatic history, first appearing during the French Revolution in 1795.