How to Identify the French 2 Francs (Silver)
A mid-sized French silver coin issued across multiple political eras, most recognizable in its Third Republic 'Semeuse' sower design.
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What Is the French 2 Francs (Silver)?
The 2 Francs silver coin was part of France's decimal franc system established in 1795 and continued, with changing designs reflecting each political era, through the monarchy, empire, and republic periods into the early 20th century. The most commonly encountered type among collectors is the Third Republic "Semeuse" (sower) design introduced in 1898.
Obverse Design
On the well-known Semeuse type, the obverse shows a standing figure of a young woman sowing seed by hand, walking toward the viewer's left with the sun rising behind her — a design by sculptor Oscar Roty symbolizing France sowing the seeds of the Republic. The legend "REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE" curves around the top rim. Earlier 2 Francs issues under Napoleon I, the Bourbon Restoration, Louis-Philippe, or Napoleon III instead show a portrait bust of the relevant ruler.
Reverse Design
The reverse of the Semeuse type displays the value "2 FRANCS" within a wreath of oak and olive branches, along with the date below. Earlier royal and imperial issues typically show the denomination surrounded by a wreath as well, though the exact branch style and surrounding text vary by period.
Size, Weight & Metal
The coin is struck in .835 fine silver, weighs approximately 10 grams, and measures about 27 millimeters in diameter, with a reeded edge.
Mint Marks
French coins carry a small mint mark and a privy mark (a tiny symbol chosen by the mint director of the time) near the base of the design, typically a bee, cornucopia, or other small emblem depending on the issuing period. The Paris mint used the mark "A," though most silver 2 Francs of this type originate from a small number of French mints.
Telling It Apart from Similar Coins
The 2 Francs Semeuse is easily confused with the smaller 1 Franc and larger 5 Francs Semeuse coins from the same series, which share the identical design but differ in size and weight. Comparing diameter and the denomination text is the fastest way to confirm you have the 2 Francs. Earlier portrait-type 2 Francs coins can be distinguished by the ruler depicted and the style of dress or headgear shown.
Judging Condition at a Glance
On the Semeuse type, check the sower's arm, the folds of her gown, and the sun's rays for sharpness — these flatten with wear. On portrait issues, the ruler's hair and the highest point of the cheek are the first areas to soften.
Authenticity Red Flags
Be alert to coins with blurred or doubled lettering, a weight that doesn't match the expected 10-gram standard, and edge reeding that appears uneven or poorly formed compared to genuine Paris mint output. Silver-washed base metal fakes can sometimes be detected by a dull or grayish tone rather than the brighter luster of genuine silver.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common design on the French 2 Francs silver coin?
The 'Semeuse' or sower design, introduced in 1898, showing a woman scattering seed by hand.
What metal is it made of?
It is struck in .835 fine silver, weighing about 10 grams.
How do I tell it apart from a 1 Franc or 5 Francs Semeuse coin?
Compare the diameter and the denomination text — the 2 Francs is roughly 27 millimeters across, larger than the 1 Franc but smaller than the 5 Francs.
Did earlier 2 Francs coins look different?
Yes, issues under Napoleon I, the Bourbon kings, Louis-Philippe, and Napoleon III show portrait busts of the ruler rather than the Semeuse figure.
What should I check to avoid a fake?
Look for crisp, undoubled lettering, correct weight near 10 grams, and even reeding on the edge.
French 2 Francs (Silver) identified by the community
Recent French 2 Francs (Silver) coins identified with Coin Identifier.
