1 Franc 'Semeuse' (The Sower)
Country of Origin: France (French Republic)
Year of Issue: 1969
Denomination: 1 Franc
Composition: Nickel
Brief Description
A silver-colored French circulation coin featuring 'The Sower' on the obverse and an olive branch on the reverse.
Historical Significance
The 'Sower' design was originally created by Oscar Roty in 1897 and was reintroduced for the New Franc in 1960. It is one of the most iconic symbols of French numismatics, representing a young woman sowing seeds into the wind, symbolizing the republic spreading its ideals.
Estimated Value
$0.50 - $1.00 in circulated condition; $3.00 - $8.00 in high uncirculated grades (MS-63+)
Care Instructions
Handle by the edges; avoid cleaning or polishing which can scratch the nickel surface; store in a dry, PVC-free flip or capsule.
Mint Mark
Cornucopia (Paris Mint) and Owl (Chief Engraver Raymond Joly)
Mintage & Rarity
53,010,000 produced; very common.
Weight & Diameter
6.0 grams / 24.0 mm
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Very Fine to Extremely Fine (VF-XF); the coin shows typical circulation wear but legends and the main figure remain clearly visible.
Obverse (Front)
The Sower (La Semeuse): a profile of a woman in a Phrygian cap sowing seeds against a rising sun. Legend: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'. Designer: Louis-Oscar Roty.
Reverse (Back)
An olive branch with the denomination '1 FRANC' above. Legend: 'LIBERTE • EGALITE • FRATERNITE'. The date '1969' is at the bottom, flanked by mint marks.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor; as a high-mintage common date, it only carries significant value in pristine, uncirculated condition.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the smaller 1/2 Franc or the larger 2 and 5 Franc coins of the same design series.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for magnetic properties (pure nickel is magnetic). Look for crisp details in the sun and olive leaves. Counterfeits of this specific common date are rare.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major rare varieties are known for the 1969 issue, though collectors look for proof-like (PL) strikes.
Created At: 2026-06-22T16:09:37.702100