The 5 francs Semeuse silver coin (1959-1969) weighs 12 g at 835 fineness, i.e. 10.02 g of fine silver. The older 5 francs (1898-1920), heavier, contain more metal. Value follows the fine weight times the spot price.
Two types of silver 5 francs must be distinguished. The 5 francs Semeuse silver coin (1959-1969) weighs 12 g at a fineness of 835, i.e. a fine weight of 12 × 0.835 = 10.02 g of pure silver. It is the most common today.
The older 5 francs (1898-1920), Semeuse type or others, weigh 25 g at 900 fineness, i.e. 22.5 g of fine — more than double. Note: 5 franc coins after 1969, in nickel or cupronickel, contain no silver. The year and weight settle it immediately.
For a 1959-1969 Semeuse silver coin: 10.02 g of fine × the day's silver price. For an older 1898-1920 5 francs: 22.5 g of fine × the day's spot. The world spot is the same for everyone; only the professional's margin varies from one offer to another.
For a batch, add up the fine weights coin by coin before multiplying by the spot. Our silver buyback page helps compare professionals. The approach is identical for the 50 francs Hercule silver coin, with a different fine weight.
The numismatic premium remains limited on common Semeuse 5 francs, struck in numbers. Some rare years or exceptional conditions may trade above the metal, but most volume is bought back at silver value. The older 1898-1920 coins, rarer in fine condition, can sometimes carry a premium.
Before selling, sort your coins by type and year to avoid confusing silver with the later, silver-free 5 francs. At buyback, the professional weighs, checks the fineness and applies its schedule; payment is made by bank transfer or cheque above cash limits, with ID and register entry.
No. Only the Semeuse 1959-1969 (12 g, 835 fineness) and the older 5 francs 1898-1920 (25 g, 900 fineness) contain silver. Later 5 francs have none.
The 5 francs Semeuse silver coin weighs 12 g at 835 fineness, i.e. 10.02 g of fine silver. Its metal value is calculated by multiplying that weight by the day's spot price.