Travel to France today, and you will be trading in European currency rather than French currency. That has been the case since 2000, when the country adopted the euro as its official currency. While the franc remains the official currency of 25 states or autonomous territories, according to the American Numismatic Society, the switch to the euro effectively ended a centuries-long era of French coins and notes. And with the right coin, you could find yourself nearly half-a-million dollars richer.
French coinage has a long history marked by turmoil. The King of France, Jean II Le Bon, passed a law that created the first franc in 1360, although coins were minted even before then. The new gold coins were used as a “ransom payment” to free the king after he was captured by King Edward III of England.
The silver ecu and gold Louis coins eventually replaced the franc as the only legal currencies, nearly 300 years after its invention. Still, the term “franc” remained in use for several more centuries after its abolition.
Louis XIV ruled much of a time of frequent wars, and the government eventually ran out of so many coins that a severe coin shortage ensued. This means that lots of coins from this period have substantial value on the collectibles market.
It revived France’s troubled financial system in 1726, having struck 20-pound gold Louis coins and then, some twenty years later, the striking of 24-pound, while by the end of that century, the word franc was reintroduced again when a new law set upon the composition of the new coins. Under the act, the franc would constitute 4.5 grammes of silver, one being alloy metal, meaning 4.5 grams. Of course, the five gram weight was maintained for 1-franc pieces – the first being issued from the mint in 1795.
Most of the French coins demanded by collectors and dealers in today’s markets are those dating to 1800 or older, but a few dated back to the 19th century. Here is a glance at 13 among the most valuable French coins.
1640 Louis XIII 10 Louis d’Or: Estimated worth is $456,000
1670 Louis XIV 15 Sols: Worth stands at $132,000
1803 Napoleon gold Proof Medallic Essai “Paris Mint Visit” 5 Francs, L’An XI: Value stands at $95,00
1270 Louis IX, Royal d’Or de Noyon: $60,00
1646 Louis XIV, Double Louis d’Or: $56,000
1815 Napoleon “100 Days” 5 Francs: $24,000
1641 Louis XIII gold 2 Louis d’Or: $19,000
1722 Louis XV gold coronation token: $18,000
1724 Louis XV Double Louis d’Or “Mirliton”: $17,600
1867 Napoleon III gold Proof Essai 25 Francs: $16,000
1357 Aquitaine, Edward III, Gold Leopard d’Or: $15,000
1815 Napoleon “100 Days” 2 Francs: $12,000
1720 Louis XV, gold Louis d’Or: $9,600
Conclusion
Owning rare French coins might be more than just an interesting hobby; it could be a good investment. Whether you are an old-time collector or just starting, finding valuable coins is an exciting adventure that may bring in some surprise income. If any of the 13 French coins mentioned here are in your possession, perhaps it is time to get them appraised. Then again, you never know where a treasure might be hidden that might turn your little collection into something precious.
FAQs
What makes a French coin valuable?
Rare minting, historical significance, and high demand among collectors often make French coins valuable.
Are French coins valuable worldwide?
Yes, collectors worldwide often seek rare French coins, especially those from specific periods or unique designs.
How can I tell if my French coin is valuable?
Research its mint year, condition, and any unique traits; consulting an appraiser also helps determine value.
Where can I sell valuable French coins?
Rare coin dealers, auction houses, and reputable online platforms are popular places to sell valuable coins.