France 1 Franc (Sower Type)

France · 1968

A silver-colored nickel coin featuring the iconic Sower design and the motto of the French Republic.

Country: France
Year: 1968
Denomination: 1 Franc
Metal: Nickel (100%)

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Identified May 2, 2026More france coins →

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Overview

A silver-colored nickel coin featuring the iconic Sower design and the motto of the French Republic.

Historical significance

The 'Sower' (La Semeuse) design is one of the most famous in French numismatics. It was originally created by Oscar Roty in 1897 and was reintroduced for the 'New Franc' currency reform under Charles de Gaulle in 1960, symbolizing a fertile and hardworking France.

Obverse (front)

The Sower (La Semeuse) walking left, scattering seeds against a rising sun. Legend: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' and the designer's name 'O. Roty'.

Reverse (back)

Olive branch and wheat stalk. Legend: 'LIBERTE · EGALITE · FRATERNITE', the denomination '1 FRANC', and the date '1968'.

Estimated value

$0.25 - $1.00 in circulated condition; $3.00 - $8.00 in Mint State (MS-63+). Not a precious metal coin.

What drives this coin's value

Most influenced by condition and the presence of rare year dates (like 1991 or 2001). The 1968 issue is extremely common and valued primarily for its design or as a bulk world coin.

Grade assessment

Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF). The coin shows visible circulation wear, particularly on the higher points of the Sower's body and the central leaves of the olive branch, but details remain clear.

Mintage & rarity

Common; approximately 64,841,000 were minted in 1968.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for magnetic properties; these are made of nickel and are strongly magnetic. Silver versions from earlier eras are not magnetic.

Notable varieties & errors

No major varieties are commonly sought for the 1968 date; it is considered a standard circulation strike.

Similar coins

The 1/2 Franc and 2 Francs share the same design but differ in diameter and weight. Early 20th-century silver 1 Franc coins share the design but are made of .835 silver.

Care & preservation

Avoid cleaning or polishing, as this ruins numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin holder or envelope in a dry environment to prevent surface dulling.