The value of a 1946 French 5 francs coin largely depends on its condition, and to some extent, its mint mark.
- Circulated, ungraded condition: Most common, likely to be in the range of a few dollars. Some examples listed on eBay are priced between $1.99 and $7.00.
- Higher grades (e.g., VF, XF): Can fetch higher prices, reaching into the double digits. NGC indicates a value of $15.00 for a 1946C Open 9 in VF condition, [according to the France 5 Francs KM 888b.3 Prices & Values – NGC].
- Uncirculated or rare varieties: Values can increase significantly for top-grade examples or rarer varieties, such as those with specific mint marks or variations in the “9” (open or closed). NGC lists a value of $18.00 for a 1946 (a) Open 9 in G condition, and $1875.00 for a 1946 (a) Open 9 in 63 condition. Another reference shows a 1946C Open 9 in 50 condition at $32.00 or $42.00, and in 63 condition at $85.00 or $95.00.
- Specifically, the 1946C (Castelsarrasin mint) coin with KM#888b.3 and a low mintage of 1,268,907 is considered rare and is priced at $54.35 on eBay, according to wowhobby . Another listing, also for a 1946 C Castelsarrasin, indicates a price of $97.34.
- Condition: As with most coins, the better the condition, the higher the value. Coins graded as Uncirculated (UNC) or Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) will command higher prices than those that are heavily circulated.
- Mint mark: The 1946 5 franc coin was minted in various locations, including Paris (represented by ‘a’ or no mint mark), and Castelsarrasin (represented by ‘C’). Coins from certain mints or with particular mint marks may be rarer and, therefore, more valuable.
- Die varieties: Minor variations in the die used to strike the coins, like the open or closed “9” in the date, can also affect the value.
In summary, a typical circulated 1946 French 5 francs coin made of aluminum can be purchased for a few dollars. However, rarer varieties, especially in higher grades, can be significantly more valuable, sometimes reaching into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Are 5 franc coins silver?
When France reformed its coinage in 1960 following the introduction of the new franc, it was decided that the new 5 franc coin would be struck in silver, and this lasted until 1969. Only the 10 francs continued to be struck in silver until 1974, after which all coins were issued in base metals.
Are French francs worth anything now?
Good point! French Franc coins were replaced by Euro coins in 2002 when the Euro became France’s national currency. The exchange deadline for French pre-euro coins expired in 2005. Since then, franc and centimes coins from France no longer have a monetary value.