Unique Off-Center French 5 Francs

Struck in 1830 at the Paris Mint, this unique 5 Francs was struck 25% off-center. Major off-center Crowns, Talers, 5 Francs, 5 Marks, and Pesos are extremely rare with only a few known from around the world.

This 5 Francs design of King Louis-Philippe was struck from 1830 through 1848. Since it was struck during the first year, it may have been a piece de caprice. Even if it was accidentally struck off-center, it was carefully saved for almost 200 years. Although graded AU 58 by NGC and not uncirculated, this is likely attributed to it being a pocket piece and not actual wear from circulation.

The only crown-sized major off-center mint error that even comes close to this off-center 5 Francs is an 1897-A Dominican Republic Peso struck 20% off-center. It was certified by NGC EF-40 and sold for $15,600 in a Stack's Bowers auction on January 16, 2026 (lot 41053).

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC. Mint Error
-- Struck 20% Off-Center --
Peso, 1897-A. NGC EF-40.
Sold for $15,600 in Stack's Bowers
(January 16, 2026, lot 41053).

slab

Image Courtesy of NGC

Off-Center Strikes are featured in
my NLG Award winning book,
World's Greatest Mint Errors.