French 5 Francs Silver Coin (Sower/La Semeuse Pattern)
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. The French national mint has a prestigious history dating back to 864 AD.
Pattern: La Semeuse (The Sower) designed by Oscar Roty, introduced in its current silver form in 1959.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. The French national mint has a prestigious history dating back to 864 AD.
Material
.835 Silver (83.5% pure silver, 16.5% copper). This coin contains 0.3222 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 29mm; Thickness: 2mm; Total Weight: 12.00 grams.
Description
A classic piece of French numismatic history, the 5 Francs 'Semeuse' is a symbol of French Republic ideals. The graceful figure of the Sower, designed by Oscar Roty, remains one of the most iconic images in world coinage, symbolizing a fertile and expanding nation.
Key Features
Roty's signature on the obverse; thePhrygian cap worn by the Sower; the 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' motto on the reverse.
Material & Composition
.835 Silver (83.5% pure silver, 16.5% copper). This coin contains 0.3222 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated mint finish with raised relief. Features 'The Sower' (La Semeuse) treading the field against a rising sun on the obverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and various engraver's marks (differents) depending on the specific year of mintage.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage; machine-minted with a reeded (milled) edge to prevent clipping and debasement.
Functional Features
Milled edge for security and tactile recognition; legal tender in France until the adoption of the Euro in 2002.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). Features a raised protective rim to prevent excessive wear on the central design.
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision mint strike. Note the balance of the Sower's stride and the detail in the rays of the sun.
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter of 29mm, distinct reeded edge, and clear lettering. Fakes usually show 'pitting' from casting not seen here.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint (Pessac facility for modern striking).
Era & Period
Modern French Fifth Republic (1958–Present). Representing the return to sound silver currency under De Gaulle.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1959 and 1969. Silver content was removed for later cupro-nickel versions.
Cultural Significance
A fundamental part of daily French life for decades, representing the stability of the post-war French economy.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine based on image (significant circulation wear, softened details, light scratches, and pocket wear).
Value Estimate
$8 - $15 USD. Primary value is tied to the current 'melt' price of silver plus a small numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean. Numismatic value is destroyed by chemical cleaning; store in PVC-free flips.
Similar Pieces
1 Franc and 2 Francs Semeuse (smaller sizes); 5 Francs Hercules (larger/heavier .900 silver).
Interesting Facts
The Sower design was originally created for stamps in 1903 before being translated to silver coinage.