France 50 centimes 50 Cents Semeuse - 1899 - Silver XF

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This 50-centime coin known as the "Semeuse" (Sower) was struck in France in 1899, under the Third Republic. It belongs to one of the most iconic series in French numismatics, whose design was created by Oscar Roty, Chief Engraver of the Mint, who introduced this motif in 1897.

The obverse of the coin depicts the Semeuse, a female allegorical figure walking in profile to the left, sowing seeds in a field. She wears a Phrygian cap and strides into the wind, set against a backdrop evoking a rising sun on the horizon. This motif, executed with exceptional refinement, is considered one of the finest achievements in French coin engraving. The reverse bears the indication of the face value, 50 centimes, along with the mention of the French Republic, surrounded by leafy branches.

From a technical standpoint, this coin is composed of silver with a fineness of 835‰, corresponding to an alloy of 83.5% fine silver. It has a weight of 2.5 grams and a diameter of 18 millimetres, which are the standard characteristics of this coin type.

The specimen presented is graded in a state of preservation of EF (Extremely Fine), which corresponds, on the French numismatic scale, to a coin that has circulated to a very limited extent. At this grade, the reliefs are well preserved, the engraving details remain sharp and precise, and the mint lustre remains partially visible. Light traces of wear may be perceptible on the most prominent parts of the design, but do not significantly affect the legibility of the details.

The date 1899 represents one of the first years of issue of this coin type for the 50-centime denomination, which gives it particular interest as part of a collection dedicated to the Semeuse series or to French coinage of the Belle Époque.

 

 

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