French 5 Francs Semeuse (Sower) Silver Coin (1960-1969)
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), designed by Oscar Roty. The Paris Mint is the oldest continuous institution in France, founded in 864 AD.
Pattern: Semeuse (The Sower) pattern, a classic French numismatic design introduced in the late 19th century and revived for the New Franc.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), designed by Oscar Roty. The Paris Mint is the oldest continuous institution in France, founded in 864 AD.
Material
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness), 16.5% Copper. Each coin contains approximately 0.3222 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 29 mm; Thickness: 2 mm; Weight: 12.0 grams (0.3858 troy oz total weight per coin).
Description
A group of French 5 Franc silver coins featuring the iconic Sower motif. Designed by Oscar Roty, this image symbolizes the French agricultural spirit and republican values. These coins were the workhorse of high-value French circulation until they were replaced by cupro-nickel versions in 1970.
Key Features
The Sower design by Oscar Roty; 83.5% silver content; '5 FRANCS' denomination; dates ranging from 1960 to 1962 clearly visible.
Material & Composition
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness), 16.5% Copper. Each coin contains approximately 0.3222 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Matte to luster finish with relief. Features the Sower (La Semeuse) walking left, sowing against a rising sun on the obverse; the reverse features an olive and oak branch, value, and date.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris), owl (1958-1974) or dolphin (various) engraver marks on the rim or reverse. Inscribed 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' and 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE'.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at high pressure. Milled (reeded) edges to prevent clipping or debasement.
Functional Features
Reeded edges for security; circulation currency design built for durability and stackability.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage).
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial precision striking. High-relief die work typical of mid-century European minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic wear patterns on the edges; accurate font and relief height; presence of standard French Mint marks (though faint in photo). Solder-free surfaces.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, manufactured at the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris) in Pessac or Paris.
Era & Period
The Fifth Republic (1958-present). Specifically the 'New Franc' era introduced under Charles de Gaulle.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1962 based on visible dates on the coins in the image.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-WWII economic stabilization of France under the Fifth Republic and the transition to the 'New Franc' to combat inflation.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition. Significant surface tarnish and oxidation (patina). Moderate wear on high points of the design. Grading roughly Fine (F) to Very Fine (VF).
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $15.00 USD per coin depending on the spot price of silver and collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or silver dips as it destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or tubes to prevent further environmental tarnish.
Similar Pieces
1970-1980 5 Francs (nickel, non-silver); 1964-1973 10 Francs Hercules (larger .900 silver); 50 Francs Hercules (.900 silver).
Interesting Facts
The Sower design was originally created for 1897 silver coins. It was so beloved it was used for stamps and later revived for the New Franc in 1960. It even appears on the current French Euro coins.