A Beloved Gold Coin That Radiates the Glory of the French Empire and Napoleon III

A historical treasure that symbolizes the grandeur of the Second French Empire.

From the world-famous Napoleon coin series, we are pleased to introduce a particularly rare and superbly preserved gold coin.

■ Design

Obverse: Portrait of Napoleon III
Inscription: NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR BARRE

Reverse: Coat of arms of the French Empire
Inscription: EMPIRE FRANÇAIS A 1857
(*“A” indicates the Paris Mint)

Engraver: Jacques-Jean Barre, 17th Chief Engraver of the Paris Mint
Barre was a genius engraver whose name is etched into French numismatic history. Regarded as one of the greatest artists of his time—on par with British master William Wyon—Barre created delicate, noble designs that continue to fascinate collectors and historians to this day.

Many French coins bear the name “BARRE,” but the most famous of all is this coin featuring Napoleon III, celebrated globally for its beauty and historical significance.

■ Grade

MS62

■ Coin Specifications

• Year of Issue: 1857

• Mint: Paris

• Denomination: 50 Francs

• Mintage: 319,320

• Material: Gold

• Diameter: 28 mm

• Weight: 16.13 g

• Obverse: Portrait of Napoleon III

• Reverse: French Empire coat of arms

• Engraver: Jacques-Jean Barre

• PCGS Grade: MS62

• PCGS Certification Page: View on PCGS

■ Key Highlights

Rarity

Only 265 coins graded by PCGS
While approximately 319,320 of these 50 Franc gold coins were minted in Paris in 1857, most entered circulation and were subject to wear. As a result, only a very limited number have survived in well-preserved condition.

Compared to the millions of 20 Franc coins minted the same year, the 50 Franc denomination was issued in far smaller quantities and was considered rare and high-value even at the time. Over the years, many were lost to circulation, melting during wars, or economic upheavals—further reducing the surviving population.

Today, it is exceedingly rare to encounter one of these coins on the market. Among collectors, it is regarded as a prized “large-format rarity.”
In recent years, coins featuring Napoleon III have attracted increasing attention as powerful emblems of French history, and their values in the antique coin market have continued to rise. Especially specimens that combine both rarity and high condition, such as this one, are becoming harder and harder to obtain.

Condition

Ranked 4th Highest by PCGS
Although this coin once circulated as legal tender, it remains in outstanding condition—an exceptionally rare feat.
Graded Mint State (MS), it boasts crisp strikes and finely detailed craftsmanship throughout. A true work of art that has withstood the passage of time.

Market Value

French antique coins are consistently valued around the world for their extraordinary artistry and rich historical background.
Gold coins bearing Napoleon’s image stand out as timeless symbols of his achievements and charisma and have maintained strong demand over the decades.

This particular coin is a tribute to the reign of Napoleon III, the emperor who modernized France. Under his leadership, the country advanced economically, upgraded its urban infrastructure, and flourished in arts and culture, cementing France’s place as a global power.
The 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris showcased a harmonious blend of industrial progress and artistic excellence, demonstrating France’s prowess on the world stage. Furthermore, the iconic Haussmann renovations, which redefined Paris with grand boulevards and beautiful cityscapes, are lasting testaments to his legacy.

This gold coin features a dignified portrait of the man who built that “golden age.” Its intricate engravings and refined design represent the pinnacle of French numismatic artistry—captivating even the most discerning collectors.

Among Napoleon-era coins, the 50 Franc gold piece is especially rare. With only about 319,000 minted in 1857, it is vastly outnumbered by the 20 Franc coins produced in the millions that same year. Its large size and high face value made it prestigious from the start. Over time, many have been lost to circulation or melted down in historical events, making surviving, high-grade examples like this one incredibly scarce.

As the “Last Emperor’s Gold Coin” and a legacy of the Second Empire, it commands strong interest in both domestic and international auctions.
Its combination of rarity, artistry, and historical significance gives this piece enduring value far beyond its gold content—making it a true jewel of modern French history.

■ Rising Global Interest

The recent global release of the film Napoleon has reignited interest in the emperor, with widespread media coverage around the world.
Just as the value of King George VI coins soared following the release of The King’s Speech, coins related to Napoleon are expected to see continued appreciation in the near future.

■ A Napoleon Coin Revered in France and Around the World

This Napoleon gold coin holds tremendous appeal both in France and internationally.
In recent years, famous gold coins in excellent condition have rapidly vanished from the market.
This piece is an ideal addition to any collection—especially while it remains available at a reasonable price.