French Third Republic 5 Francs Hercules Type 1873 Sterling Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), designed by Augustin Dupré. The Paris Mint is one of the world's oldest continuously running institutions, established in 864.
Pattern: Hercules Group (Union et Force). This specific design was originally created by Dupré during the French Revolution and reintroduced by the Third Republic.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), designed by Augustin Dupré. The Paris Mint is one of the world's oldest continuously running institutions, established in 864.
Material
90.0% Pure Silver (0.900 Fineness), 10.0% Copper. Known as 'Coin Silver' in international trade, containing 0.7234 troy ounces of actual silver weight (ASW).
Dimensions
Diameter: 37 mm; Thickness: 2.3 mm; Standard Weight: 25.00 grams (approx. 0.8038 troy oz).
Description
An iconic example of French numismatic art, the 1873 5 Francs is part of the 'Hercule' series. The reverse shows a delicate but dense wreath of oak (representing strength) and olive (representing peace), surrounding the bold '5 FRANCS 1873' inscription. The typography and layout reflect the Enlightenment-inspired Neoclassicism that dominated French statecraft and design through the 19th century. As one of the 'Crown-sized' silver coins of the world, it provides a substantial heft and impressive visual surface area for collectors.
Key Features
Dual mint marks (Bee and Anchor), 'A' Paris mint mark, 900 silver purity, and the specific Hercules Group reverse wreath design by Augustin Dupré.
Material & Composition
90.0% Pure Silver (0.900 Fineness), 10.0% Copper. Known as 'Coin Silver' in international trade, containing 0.7234 troy ounces of actual silver weight (ASW).
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a reeded edge. The reverse features a centered wreath of olive and oak branches tied with a ribbon, enclosing the denomination and date. Neoclassical style characteristic of the French revolutionary era.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse contains the 'A' mint mark (Paris), an anchor (general engraver mark), and a bee (mint director mark). The obverse (not fully visible but implied) features Hercules between Liberty and Equality.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck using a steam or hydraulic toggle press at the Paris Mint. Edge is struck with 'DIEU PROTÈGE LA FRANCE' in raised or incuse lettering.
Functional Features
Standard circulating legal tender of the Latin Monetary Union (LMU), designed for durability and ease of stackability in banking and trade.
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard numismatic item). The reeded edge and raised rim serve to prevent shaving or 'clipping' of the precious metal.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision mechanical striking. The regularity of the denticles (beading) around the rim and the crispness of the date numbers demonstrate high-level 19th-century industrial excellence.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for '5 FRANCS', consistent spacing of the 'A' mint mark, and appropriate wear patterns for a 150-year-old silver coin. Lack of casting bubbles or seam lines.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris. Produced at the main workshop of the Monnaie de Paris following strict state-mandated monetary standards.
Era & Period
French Third Republic (1870-1940). This 1873 issue reflects the stabilization of the French currency following the Franco-Prussian War.
Age Estimate
Dated 1873. Stylistic and metallurgical indicators are consistent with late 19th-century French industrial coinage.
Cultural Significance
Represents the triumph of the Republic over the Second Empire. It symbolizes French democratic values (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) and France's former position as the leader of a European-wide monetary standard.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible circulation wear on the higher points of the wreath. Moderate surface scratches and typical 'bag marks.' Natural light tarnish with no evidence of harsh chemical cleaning. Rim remains mostly intact.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $40.00 USD. Value is closely tied to the current spot price of silver plus a small numismatic premium for the date and mint condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean with abrasives; this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or a specialized coin capsule. Handle only by the edges to avoid transferring finger oils to the silver surface.
Similar Pieces
1873-K (Bordeaux Mint) 5 Francs, Belgian 5 Francs (Leopold II), or Italian 5 Lire (Vittorio Emanuele II). The 'A' mark is the differentiate for the Paris version.
Interesting Facts
The Hercules design is so revered in France that it has been reused on 10, 50, and even modern Euro collector coins. This coin was part of the Latin Monetary Union, meaning it could circulate at face value in Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, and Greece at the time.