Second Republic (1848-1852) Coin List
The Second French Republic, established in 1848 after the fall of the July Monarchy, marked a period of significant change in French history. This brief but intense period, which lasted until 1852, saw important political and social reforms, as well as changes in the country's monetary system.
Historical and political context
The Second Republic emerged in the midst of a revolutionary wave that shook Europe in 1848. In France, this led to the abdication of King Louis-Philippe I and the establishment of a provisional government. This new government implemented important reforms, such as universal male suffrage and the abolition of slavery in the French colonies. However, the republic faced significant challenges, including tensions between political factions and economic problems. The election of Louis Napoleon Bonaparte as president in December 1848 marked a shift to a more conservative government, which would eventually lead to the establishment of the Second French Empire in 1852.
Monetary system and numismatics
During the Second Republic, notable changes occurred in the French monetary system. The new official currency was the franc, which had already been in use since the French Revolution. However, new designs were introduced that reflected republican ideals. One of the most emblematic coins of this period was the "20 gold franc", which featured on its obverse side the figure of Ceres, the Roman goddess of agriculture, symbolizing abundance and the republic. On the reverse, the denomination was shown surrounded by a laurel and oak wreath. Other important coins included the "5 franc silver", which also featured allegorical republican motifs. These coins not only served as a medium of exchange, but also represented the values and ideals of the new republic, marking a clear break with previous monarchical designs.
The most valuable and popular coins
The most valuable Second Republic (1848-1852) coins and sought after by collectors according to Foronum statistics are the following:
The valuation of these coins list has been achieved through a meticulous algorithm that considers the current market, taking into account aspects such as material, weight, diameter, edge, year of mintage, mint of manufacture and the number of coins produced. Coins with limited mintages and in good condition are usually among the most valuable.
Old coins of France
To facilitate their classification, we have decided to organise the coins according to their historical period, you can consult the coins by historical numismatic categories of France.
Louis XIII 1610-1643 Louis XIV (Sun) 1643-1715 Louis XIV (Ecu) 1643-1715 Louis XVI 1774-1796 First Republic 1794-1803 French Empire 1803-1815 Kingdom of France 1815-1848 Second Republic 1848-1852 Napoleon III 1852-1870 Republic/former Franco 1870-1960 Vichy Government 1940-1944 New French Franc 1960-2001 Euro 1999-?Coin Catalog
Francia | 1 centime
Francia | 5 francs
Francia | 20 centimes
Francia | 1 franc
Francia | 2 francs
Francia | 5 francs
Francia | 20 francs
Other resources to find coins and banknotes of France
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