French 1 Franc Coin (Semeuse / The Sower design)
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint) · Collectibles & Antiques > Coins & Paper Money
Era / Decade
1960s-1990s (The nickel Semeuse design was minted from 1960-2001)
Material
Nickel; high durability and resistance to corrosion
Condition
Good to Very Good. Significant surface wear, minor scratching, and visible dirt/toning. Design elements remain legible but lack crisp detail.
Demand Level
Low to Moderate; very common coin with millions minted, primarily of interest to beginner collectors or as jewelry components.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$0.25 - $2.00
Estimated Retail Value
$0.50 - $1.50 (Currently demonetized)
Comparable Sales
Recent individual sales on eBay range from $1.00 to $3.00 with free shipping. Bulk lots typically sell for $5.00-$10.00 per pound of mixed foreign coins.
Description
A classic French 1 Franc coin featuring Oscar Roty's iconic 'Semeuse' (The Sower) walking left with a bag of grain, sowing against a rising sun. The reverse (not shown) typically features the denomination and olive/oak branches. Inscribed 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'.
Key Features
Iconic Art Nouveau design by Oscar Roty; historically significant as pre-Euro French currency; high-quality nickel composition.
Authenticity Indicators
Correct font, distinctive 'Semeuse' silhouette, and standard nickel luster. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Heavy circulation wear; surface scratches; minor edge dings; black spotting/pitting visible on the upper 'REPUBLIQUE' lettering.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (as part of a lot), Etsy (if marketed for jewelry/crafts), or local coin shops (bulk 'junk bin').
Selling Tips
Do NOT clean the coin as this destroys numismatic value. Take a high-resolution photo of the reverse to see the date. Most dates are common; unless it is a rare date (like 1991-2001 proof-only or low mintage years), sell it as part of a 'World Coin Lot' to save on shipping.