France 10 Francs Napoleon III

The France 10 Francs Napoleon III Gold Coin is a notable piece of French numismatic history, minted during the reign of Napoleon III from 1854 to 1860. These coins are valued for their historical significance, classic design, and gold content, making them appealing to both collectors and investors.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features a portrait of Emperor Napoleon III facing right, with the inscription "NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR" surrounding the bust. The engraver's signature is typically found below the portrait.
• Reverse (back): Displays the denomination "10 FRANCS" surrounded by a laurel wreath, with the date of mintage below. The inscription "EMPIRE FRANÇAIS" encircles the design.
• Weight: 3.2258 grams
• Gold Content: 0.0933 troy ounces of pure gold
• Fineness: 90% gold (0.900 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The 10 Francs Napoleon III coins were produced at several French mints, identifiable by mint marks located on the reverse, near the date:

• Paris ('A'): The primary mint for these coins, producing the majority of the 10 Francs Napoleon III.
• Strasbourg ('BB'): Known for lower mintages, making some years more collectible.
• Bordeaux ('K'): Another mint with more limited production runs, adding intrigue for collectors.
• Lyon ('D'): Occasionally produced these coins, with certain years being more scarce.

Collectible Varieties

• Different Portraits: Some coins feature subtle variations in the portrait of Napoleon III, which can be of interest to dedicated collectors.
• Mint Varieties: Coins from mints like Strasbourg ('BB') and Bordeaux ('K') are particularly collectible due to their lower production numbers.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Paris issues generally had larger mintages, making them more common in the market today. These coins are often traded for their gold content and historical value.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Coins minted outside of Paris, especially from Strasbourg ('BB') and Bordeaux ('K'), tend to be rarer, particularly in higher grades. Some years and mint marks are more desirable due to their limited availability.

Various Grades and Values

The value of France 10 Francs Napoleon III Gold Coins depends on their condition (grade), rarity, and mint mark. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins (Paris mint):

• Good (G): $150-250
• Fine (F): $200-300
• Extremely Fine (XF): $300-400
• About Uncirculated (AU): $400-500
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $500-700

Rare mint marks and key dates can command prices significantly higher, especially in uncirculated conditions.

The France 10 Francs Napoleon III Gold Coin remains a significant piece of French coinage history. Coins from non-Paris mints and specific years are highly sought after by collectors and can command significant premiums. Common-date coins are more accessible and may be valued for both their gold content and historical significance. The coin's value increases notably with higher grades and more desirable mint marks.

10 Francs Napoleon III Auctions