This 1 Franc silver coin from France, minted in 1899 at the Paris Mint, features the iconic "La Semeuse" (The Sower) design, a masterpiece of French numismatics. Struck in .835 fine silver, this coin is part of the early issues of the Third Republic (1870–1940), making it a highly collectible piece.
🔹 Obverse: Showcases the legendary La Semeuse, an allegorical representation of France, created by Oscar Roty. The dynamic design depicts a woman sowing seeds with the sun rising in the background, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the progress of the Republic. The inscription "RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE" encircles the design.
🔹 Reverse: Displays the denomination "1 FRANC", encircled by an olive and oak wreath, symbolizing peace and strength. Above, the French national motto "LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ" (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) is inscribed. The year "1899" and the Paris Mint mark ("Cornucopia") are found below.
As one of the earliest issues of the "La Semeuse" series, this 1899 1 Franc coin is a valuable piece of French numismatic history, highly sought after by collectors of classic silver coinage, La Semeuse designs, and Third Republic-era coins!
