French 10 Francs 'Hercule' Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Pattern: Hercule (Hercules Union) Group
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Material
900/1000 Silver (90% Silver, 10% Copper)
Dimensions
Diameter: 37mm; Weight: 25.0g (0.7234 troy oz Actual Silver Weight per coin).
Description
The French 10 Francs Hercule is a heavy silver bullion coin once intended for circulation but primarily hoarded for silver content. The reverse side shown displays a lush wreath of laurel and oak branches, symbolizing peace and strength, tied with a ribbon at the base. The text 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' arcs across the top in a classic serif font. These large-format coins are favorites among 'junk silver' investors due to their high purity and historical French design lineage.
Key Features
37mm diameter size, 90% silver purity, characteristic wreath motif, and the Augustin Dupré Hercules design on the obverse.
Material & Composition
900/1000 Silver (90% Silver, 10% Copper)
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck numismatic finish with a reverse featuring a laurel-oak wreath surrounding the denomination and date. The obverse (hidden) features the Hercules Group.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris), '10 FRANCS' denomination, and dates ranging from 1964 to 1973 (visible dates in image include 1968, 1965, 1967).
Construction Details
Industrial die-striking using high-pressure coin presses.
Functional Features
Milled edge (lettered edge with 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' in relief on French legal tender).
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld currency.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-quality steel dies; excellent symmetry and uniform rim beading typical of modern state mint production.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font spacing for the Paris Mint, sharp strike on the '10 FRANCS' lettering, and consistent wear patterns along the rim beads.
Origin & Manufacturing
France; Paris Mint (Pessac facility).
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Contemporary era, specifically mid-20th century).
Age Estimate
1964-1973 (visible specimens include 1965, 1967, and 1968).
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French fiscal stability and pride during the De Gaulle era, transitioning France from the 'Old Franc' to the 'New Franc'.
Condition Notes
Circulated to About Uncirculated. Visible surface bag marks, light tarnish/oxidation on several pieces, and characteristic high-point wear on the wreaths. Grade: Fine to Extremely Fine (XF).
Value Estimate
$20 - $30 USD per coin, primarily dictated by the current spot price of silver plus a small numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic items as it destroys surface luster and value. Store in PVC-free flips or tubes to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
5 Francs Semeuse (smaller, 83.5% silver), 50 Francs Hercule (larger 30g coin), and 10 Francs Turin (older 68% silver alloy).
Interesting Facts
The Hercules design used on this coin was originally created by Augustin Dupré for the first Republic in 1795 and has been revived for various French denominations for over 200 years.