In 1856, Napoleon III ruled France and a variety of coins were minted under his reign, including gold, silver, and copper denominations. The value of these coins today largely depends on their metal content, condition (grade), and rarity (mintage figures).
Here’s a breakdown of the typical values for some 1856 Napoleon III coins:
- 100 Francs: These coins contain a significant amount of gold (.9334 oz actual gold weight). Depending on the condition, an 1856 100 Francs coin can be worth around $3500 USD . Higher-grade examples (e.g., PCGS Secure Plus AU 53) can sell for as high as $3700 USD.
- 50 Francs: Containing 14.5161 g of pure gold, these coins are typically valued around $1775-1820 USD for circulated examples. Examples in Very Fine (VF) condition might be found for a higher price, according to cgbfr.com.
- 20 Francs: These coins are quite common and contain 5.8064 g of pure gold. Circulated examples generally sell for around $655-716 USD . Even coins in poor condition are unlikely to sell for less than the melt value, which was $631.42 USD as of August 14, 2025.
- 10 Francs: With 2.9032 g of pure gold, 1856 10 Francs coins have an average price of $170 USD . However, the melt value is higher at $316.17 USD, [according to Coinstrail] . Some circulated examples might be found for as low as $49.95 USD. Higher grades, such as SUP62 PCGS, can reach $642.42 USD.
- 5 Francs: These smaller gold coins contain 1.4516 g of pure gold. The average price is around $170 USD , though they shouldn’t be sold for less than their melt value. However, some examples might be found for under $100 USD. Higher graded coins (VF) could sell for more, for instance, [according to eBay – cdma59].
- Baptism of Louis-Napoleon Commemorative Silver: These coins, commemorating the baptism of Napoleon III’s son, are valued around $45-50 USD for circulated examples.
- 5 Francs Silver: An 1856 5 Francs silver coin in VF condition can be valued at around $87.10 USD.
- 20 Centimes Silver: A rare 1856 20 Centimes silver coin in EF condition was found listed for sale at $12 USD.
- 10 Centimes Copper: An 1856 copper 10 Centimes coin can be found for as low as $15 USD for a worn example. A circulated 1856B coin was available for $21 USD.
- Mint Mark: Different mints (e.g., “A” for Paris, “BB” for Strasbourg) can affect the rarity and thus the value of a coin.
- Condition: The condition or grade of a coin is a major factor. Uncirculated (UNC) or About Uncirculated (AU) coins are more valuable than circulated or worn examples.
- Market Fluctuations: Coin values are subject to market fluctuations, especially for precious metal coins. The gold spot price can significantly impact the value of gold coins.
Important Note: These are just estimated values based on recent listings and general market trends. It is recommended to consult with a professional coin appraiser or use a reputable online resource like NGC or PCGS for accurate valuations of specific coins. You can also explore auction results to see what similar coins have recently sold for.
What is the 1856 Napoleon 3 coin?
1856 20 French Francs gold coin. This version has the Plain head portrait of Napoleon III and the reverse has the value and year surrounded by a wreath. The text reads NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR and EMPIRE FRANCAIS. The ‘A’ mintmark indicates that the coin was minted in Paris.
Are Napoleon coins valuable?
Napoleon Gold Coins were circulated within the French Empire and used for both domestic and international trade until shortly after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. This marked the end of the issuance of Napoleon Gold Coins, making them a valuable and limited historical artefact.
How much is a 1855 Napoleon coin worth?
1855 French 20 Francs Gold Coin Napoleon III – From £600.20 | BullionByPost.
Which French coins are worth money?
Great question! 1640 Louis XIII 10 Louis d’Or: $456,000 estimated value.
1670 Louis XIV 15 Sols: $132,000.
1803 Napoleon gold Proof Medallic Essai “Paris Mint Visit” 5 Francs, L’An XI: $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.