French 5 Francs Hercules Type Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official minting institution of the French Republic with a history dating back to 864 AD.
Pattern: Hercules Group (Hercule) design by Augustin Dupré, originally introduced in the late 18th century and reprised in the 1960s.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official minting institution of the French Republic with a history dating back to 864 AD.
Material
90% Silver (.900 fineness), 10% Copper. It contains approximately 0.7234 troy ounces of actual silver weight (ASW).
Dimensions
Diameter: 37 mm; Thickness: 2.7 mm; Weight: 25.0 grams (0.8038 oz total weight).
Description
A iconic piece of French numismatic history, this 5 Franc Hercules coin showcases the neoclassical artistry of Augustin Dupré. The reverse, visible here, depicts a lush wreath of oak and laurel symbolizing strength and peace, framing the denomination. This type was part of the redenomination of the Franc under Charles de Gaulle, serving as both currency and a store of silver value during the 1960s.
Key Features
Hercules motif reverse; '5 FRANCS' denomination; .900 silver purity; large 37mm 'crown-sized' format.
Material & Composition
90% Silver (.900 fineness), 10% Copper. It contains approximately 0.7234 troy ounces of actual silver weight (ASW).
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a matte to satin luster; features a reverse design with the value '5 FRANCS' surrounded by a laurel branch (left) and oak branch (right), tied with a ribbon. The legend 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' is prominent.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint marks include the Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris) and various engraver marks (such as the owl or dolphin depending on the specific year). No 'Sterling' stamp as it follows the French decimal monetary system.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at a high-pressure minting facility; featuring a lettered edge (usually 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE' or 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' in relief).
Functional Features
Milled/lettered edge to prevent debasement and clipping; high-relief sculptural design intended for durability in circulation.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; however, the rim is raised to protect the interior design from surface wear during handling.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial strike; the detail in the veins of the oak leaves and the ribbon tie demonstrates the superior die-engraving standards of the Paris Mint.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive typography of 'FRANCS'; specific width of the laurel berries; coin alignment; consistent edge lettering; weight of exactly 25g when unworn.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Paris Mint). Manufactured using industrial coin presses consistent with mid-20th-century minting technology.
Era & Period
Modern Republic / Fifth Republic (Fifth Republic issue typically c. 1960-1969, though the design is neoclassical).
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1969 (based on the specific '5 FRANC' denomination and Hercules design visible).
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war financial stability of France and the return to 'hard money' silver standards during the 1960s monetary reforms.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine; shows significant surface tarnish/toning and circulation wear on the high points of the laurel leaves and text. No major rim dings visible in the crop.
Value Estimate
$15 - $25 USD depending on current silver spot price and numismatic demand for the specific date.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent further environmental oxidation.
Similar Pieces
French 10 Francs Hercules (larger, .900 silver), 50 Francs Hercules (much larger, 30g), and the Sower (Semeuse) 5 Francs (smaller, early 1960s).
Interesting Facts
The Hercules design is one of the most long-lived in coinage, used in the First, Second, Third, and Fifth French Republics across three centuries.