French 1916 50 Centimes Sower (La Semeuse) Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by Oscar Roty (1846–1911), one of France's most celebrated medalists.
Pattern: La Semeuse (The Sower) design, originally introduced in 1897 and used on various denominations for over a century.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by Oscar Roty (1846–1911), one of France's most celebrated medalists.
Material
83.5% Silver (.835 fine), 16.5% Copper. This was the standard fineness for small French fractional silver of the era.
Dimensions
Diameter: 18.0 mm; Thickness: 1.05 mm; Weight: 2.5 grams (approx. 2.08g of pure silver content).
Description
A classic example of French numismatic art, this 50 Centimes piece remains high in silver purity despite the wartime exigencies of 1916. The design by Oscar Roty is considered one of the most beautiful in European currency history, symbolizing a Republic that sows the seeds of progress and peace.
Key Features
Olive branch motif, dated 1916, .835 silver purity, 'La Semeuse' design lineage, and high relief lettering.
Material & Composition
83.5% Silver (.835 fine), 16.5% Copper. This was the standard fineness for small French fractional silver of the era.
Finish & Decoration
Reverse (shown) features an olive branch, signifying peace, with the denomination and national motto. Obverse (hidden) features the iconic lady 'Sower' walking in a field with a rising sun. Art Nouveau style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The reverse features the date '1916', the denomination '50 CENTIMES', and the motto 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE'. Mint marks (cornucopia for Paris and torch for the engraver) are typically found on the obverse.
Construction Details
Die-struck/Machine-milled at the Paris Mint using high-pressure mechanical presses on prepared planchets.
Functional Features
Milled/Reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' (scraping silver off the edges); used as legal tender in France during WWI.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld currency object.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional die engraving by Roty; even under wear, the anatomical detail of the olive branch and the balance of the typography remain clear.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for '1916', proper alignment of the olive branch, and natural 'grey' toning consistent with 83.5% silver composition.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris). Traditional French numismatic standards for silver fractional currency.
Era & Period
Modern Era / World War I Period. Designed during the Belle Époque/Art Nouveau transition.
Age Estimate
Dated 1916. Produced during the third year of the First World War.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French national identity and agricultural resilience; silver coinage of this era survived the inflation that later forced most countries to switch to base metals.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Significant surface tarnish (patina), visible circulation wear on the olive leaves, and minor rim dings. No evidence of cleaning, which preserves numismatic value.
Value Estimate
$3.00 - $8.00 USD. Value is mostly tied to silver melt weight (~$1.50) plus a small numismatic premium for the date and condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean with silver cream, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1 Franc and 2 Franc coins of the same era (larger sizes/weights), or the 10/20 Franc gold coins (Marianne/Rooster design).
Interesting Facts
The 'Sower' design was so popular it was revived for the New Franc in 1960 and appears on some modern French Euro coins.