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The France 5 Centimes 1855B KM#777.2 coin is a historically meaningful bronze issue from the reign of Emperor Napoleon III, struck at the Rouen Mint as denoted by the “B” mintmark. This coin belongs to the laureate-head type introduced early in Napoleon III’s Second Empire and reflects France’s continuing development of a modern, decimalized coinage system. With a denomination that served millions of everyday transactions, the 5 centimes coin was widely used throughout France. A Very Fine (VF) example like this one retains strong central detail and major design elements despite moderate circulation wear, making it an attractive and accessible piece for collectors of 19th-century French numismatics.
In 1855, Napoleon III was consolidating his authority and positioning the Second Empire as a modern imperial power. His domestic reforms and infrastructural investments, coupled with grand international ambitions—including involvement in the Crimean War—were part of an effort to emulate the grandeur and authority of his uncle, Napoleon Bonaparte. Coinage during his reign was designed not only for utility but also to reinforce imperial symbolism and national unity. Bronze coins like the 5 centimes bore the imperial eagle, laurel imagery, and inscriptions that conveyed the strength and legitimacy of the new regime.
The obverse of the 1855B 5 centimes coin features the right-facing bust of Napoleon III wearing a laurel wreath, an unmistakable reference to Roman emperors and his uncle’s iconography. The inscription “NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR” encircles the portrait, and the date “1855” is placed below. In VF condition, the central portrait remains bold, with the laurel leaves and facial features clearly outlined though moderately worn. The design was executed by Jean-Jacques Barre, then Chief Engraver at the Monnaie de Paris, whose work blends neoclassical influence with restrained realism. Despite circulation, a VF example retains the strong character and authority conveyed by this imperial profile.
The reverse design presents a striking imperial eagle with wings extended, perched on a thunderbolt—a classic Napoleonic motif symbolizing military power and state sovereignty. The inscription “EMPIRE FRANÇAIS” arches above the eagle, and the denomination “5 CENTIMES” is found beneath. At the bottom, the mintmark “B” signifies production at the Rouen Mint. In VF condition, the eagle’s silhouette and wing structure are well preserved, though finer feather details may show wear. All legends remain legible, and the coin’s overall design still commands attention despite its age and use in circulation.
KM#777.2 in the Krause-Mishler catalog refers to the 5 centimes bronze issue with the laureate head of Napoleon III and imperial eagle reverse, specifically those struck at mints other than Paris. The coin is composed of bronze, measures approximately 25 millimeters in diameter, and weighs around 5 grams. It has a plain edge and was produced using steam presses, ensuring sharpness and uniformity even among regional mints. While coins of this type were struck at multiple mints, including Paris (A), Rouen (B), Lyon (BB), and others, mintmarked pieces such as this one offer additional interest for collectors focusing on geographic or production varieties.
The Rouen Mint, indicated by the “B” mintmark, operated intermittently throughout France’s coinage history and played a significant role during the 19th century in supplementing the central mint’s output. While not as prolific as Paris, Rouen produced substantial numbers of small bronze denominations, including the 5 centimes. Coins from this mint are generally well struck but are scarcer than Paris issues, and examples in better circulated grades like VF are relatively harder to locate. For collectors of mintmark varieties or regional French coinage, the 1855B issue offers a compelling target due to its combination of historical appeal and moderate rarity.
The 5 centimes denomination was crucial in 19th-century French commerce. Valued at 1/20th of a franc, it facilitated small purchases in markets, shops, and among vendors, and was commonly used for streetcar fares, postage, and other daily expenses. Its small value meant it circulated widely and often for years, leading to heavy wear. As such, most surviving examples are found in lower grades, and those preserved in VF condition are appreciated for their visual clarity and remaining artistry. In VF, major design elements remain distinct, though high points show wear from repeated handling.
A VF-grade 1855B coin typically shows wear on the laurel wreath and Napoleon’s facial contours, with slightly softened edges and smoothing of the hair and bust lines. The reverse eagle may exhibit wear on its breast and wings, but its outline and stance remain prominent. Lettering is complete and sharp, and the mintmark is easily visible. The coin’s bronze surface usually acquires an even brown or chocolate patina, with occasional minor abrasions or marks that are consistent with a century and a half of age. These features make it a collectible that balances historical resonance with pleasing aesthetics.
From a symbolic standpoint, the coin’s imagery tells a rich story. The laurel-crowned emperor projects legitimacy and strength, while the eagle on the reverse reflects the military origins of Napoleon III’s rise to power. These motifs communicate both personal and national authority. In a period of emerging nationalism, industrial progress, and European imperial competition, coins such as the 1855 5 centimes acted as small but pervasive instruments of political messaging. That Rouen was entrusted with producing such coins speaks to the decentralized but coordinated nature of France’s minting infrastructure under the empire.
The 1855 date is also of historical significance. It was during this year that France, in alliance with Britain and the Ottoman Empire, was deeply involved in the Crimean War, asserting its influence against Russia. Domestically, major public works projects and economic liberalization under Napoleon III continued to transform French society and infrastructure. This coin, a product of that exact moment, offers collectors a tangible link to a transformative year in French and European history. It circulated during a time of profound national ambition, modernization, and military engagement abroad.
The Certified France 5 Centimes 1855B KM#777.2 in Very Fine condition provides an excellent opportunity to acquire a piece of Second Empire history with strong eye appeal, regional mint significance, and rich symbolism. Though modest in face value, this coin embodies a dynamic period in French history, with a design that speaks directly to the identity and aspirations of an imperial regime. It is ideal for collectors of French coinage, Napoleonic themes, or 19th-century European monetary systems. Its balance of preservation, design clarity, and historical depth makes it a valuable addition to any serious numismatic collection.