A Popular Gold Coin That Preserves the Brilliance of the Glorious French Empire and Napoleon III
A historical treasure that symbolizes the opulent era of the Second French Empire.

From the world-renowned Napoleon coins, we present a particularly well-preserved and rare 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
A legendary sculptor in French numismatic history, Jacques-Jean Barre created refined and elegant designs that rival those of Britain’s William Wyon. His artistry continues to captivate collectors and history enthusiasts across generations.

While many French coins bear the name “BARRE,” the most iconic is this Napoleon III coin, which enjoys overwhelming popularity worldwide.

■ Grade

MS62

■ Coin Details

• 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

• NGC Certification: MS62

• NGC Verification Page: NGC Cert Lookup

■ Highlights

Rarity
“Only 548 coins graded by NGC”
Although approximately 319,320 coins were minted in 1857 at the Paris Mint, most were circulated, leaving very few surviving examples in excellent condition today.

In particular, the 50 Franc gold coin was produced in much smaller numbers compared to the millions of 20 Franc coins minted that same year. From the beginning, it was considered a high-denomination and rare gold coin. Many were worn down through circulation or melted during wars and economic crises, making surviving specimens even scarcer.

As a result, encountering a 50 Franc gold coin on the market today is extremely rare. Among collectors, it is highly regarded as a "rare large-format gold coin."
In recent years, gold coins featuring Napoleon III have gained renewed attention as symbols of French history, and their market value has surged. Especially well-preserved and rare examples are becoming increasingly difficult to acquire.

Condition
“Ranked 6th highest by NGC”
Despite being a circulation coin, its preservation is remarkably rare.
Graded MS (Mint State), it boasts sharp strikes and fine detail—clearly deserving of recognition as a work of art.

Market Value
French antique coins are globally admired for their exceptional artistry and rich historical background. Gold coins featuring Napoleon's image, in particular, are celebrated symbols of his achievements and charisma, and have long maintained unwavering popularity.

This coin symbolizes the reign of Napoleon III, who spearheaded France’s modernization. His initiatives included economic revitalization, urban infrastructure development, and the promotion of arts and culture, elevating France to a leading global power.
The 1855 Paris Exposition Universelle showcased the synthesis of industrial and artistic advancement, enhancing France’s international presence. Additionally, the famous Haussmann renovations gave birth to the grand boulevards and elegant cityscapes that define modern-day Paris.

This gold coin features a dignified portrait of Napoleon III, the man behind that “Golden Era.” Its intricate engraving and refined design represent the pinnacle of French numismatic artistry and continue to captivate even the most discerning collectors.

The 50 Franc denomination is especially rare within the Napoleon gold coin series. With an estimated mintage of around 319,000 for the 1857 “A” (Paris Mint) issue, it pales in comparison to the millions of 20 Franc coins minted that year.
Because many were circulated or melted down due to historical events, the number of surviving examples—particularly in excellent condition—is extremely limited.

As the “Last Emperor of France’s” gold coin and a legacy of the Second Empire, this piece consistently garners strong interest at auctions both domestically and internationally. With its rarity, artistic value, and historical importance, this masterpiece transcends investment appeal and offers a tangible connection to the pulse of modern French history.

The recent global release of the film Napoleon has once again thrust the emperor into the spotlight. Much like the surge in value seen for King George VI coins following the release of The King’s Speech, Napoleon-related coins are also expected to appreciate in value.

An Iconic Gold Coin Revered in France and Worldwide!

Well-preserved and rare gold coins like this one are quickly vanishing from the market.
Now is the perfect opportunity to add this remarkable piece to your collection—while it's still within reach.