French 5 Francs Silver Coin, Louis-Philippe I 'Tête Laurée' Type
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (French State Mint). Chief Engraver: Joseph-François Domard.
Pattern: Louis-Philippe I, Laureate Head Reign Type (1830-1848)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (French State Mint). Chief Engraver: Joseph-François Domard.
Material
90% Silver (.900 Fineness), 10% Copper. Contains approximately 0.7234 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 37 mm; Standard Weight: 25.00 grams; Thickness: approx 2.0 mm.
Description
A classic example of 19th-century French numismatic silver, this 5 Franc piece displays the profile of the 'Citizen King' Louis-Philippe I adorned with a laurel wreath. The coin represents the economic stability and stylistic transition of France between the Napoleonic era and the Second Republic.
Key Features
The distinctive laurel wreath on the King's head, the specific 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS' (King of the French) title rather than 'King of France', and the 25g silver standard.
Material & Composition
90% Silver (.900 Fineness), 10% Copper. Contains approximately 0.7234 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Struck finish with raised relief. Obverse features the laureate profile of King Louis-Philippe I. Reverse typically features the value and date within a wreath. Edge is typically lettered with 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS'. Mint marks: Usually 'A' for Paris, 'BB' for Strasbourg, or 'W' for Lille. Engraver's signature 'DOMARD F.' (Domard Fecit).
Construction Details
Die-struck using high-pressure minting presses characteristic of early 19th-century French industrial production.
Functional Features
Standard legal tender currency of the July Monarchy. Reeded or lettered edge provided security against shaving/clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (Numismatic item).
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking. High level of detail in the laureate wreath and beard, showcasing the pinnacle of 19th-century French engraving technology.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (should be close to 25g), diameter of 37mm, and crispness of lettering in 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS'. Characteristic 'Domard' signature style.
Origin & Manufacturing
France; specific mint depends on the letter code (most likely Paris 'A' or Rouen 'B').
Era & Period
July Monarchy / Second Restoration Era (1830-1848). Neoclassical influence in portraiture.
Age Estimate
Circa 1831-1848 based on 'Tête Laurée' (Laureate Head) design introduction.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the French middle-class rise and industrial growth. The 5 Franc was the 'workhorse' silver denomination for significant daily transactions in 19th-century Europe.
Condition Notes
Based on image, the coin shows significant circulation wear (Fine to Very Fine grade). Surface appears dulled with tarnish and possible sulfide deposits. High points of the laurel wreath and hair are smoothed.
Value Estimate
$25 - $45 USD for circulated common dates; higher for rare mint marks or 'Uncirculated' (MS) grades.
Care & Maintenance
Never polish or use abrasive cleaners on silver coins as it destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules. Handle by edges only with cotton gloves.
Similar Pieces
5 Francs Napoleon I (Empire), 5 Francs Charles X (Restoration), and the Hercule Union types of the Second Republic.
Interesting Facts
The 'Citizen King' title used on this coin reflected the social contract of the 1830 Revolution. Many of these coins were melted or exported during the late 19th century under the Latin Monetary Union.