FRANCE. 25 Franc, 1867. NGC PROOF-61.Maz-1745; KM-E29. Obverse: Laureate bust of Napoleon III, "BARRE" below; Reverse: "5 DOLLARS 25 FRANCS" in a circle of dots, "OR. ESSAI MONETAIRE" around, date below. This pattern by Barre was struck for a monetary conference held in Paris in 1867. A similar one (Maz-1746) was also struck with the reverse legend "10 FLORINS 25 FRANCS". The conference was a failure, but eventually the Latin Monetary Union included many of the smaller countries of Europe. Mazard (presumably in error) states that this pattern has a plain edge, but this specimen is reeded. Handling on both sides determines the grade, but no deep marks impede the surfaces. Extremely popular and highly coveted as a type.NGC PROOF-61.
