Emperor Napoleon III was a great ruler, he was known for modernizing France and boosting its economy, However, he was not without controversy, as he was a womanizer whose desire to expand his land and territories led to war. He was known for his grand reconstruction of Paris, building wide avenues, creating parks, gardens, hospitals, theaters, and educational institutions. He modernized the French economy, catching it up to likes of Germany and England, by promoting and progressing agriculture, industry, and trade. He understood the importance of infrastructure and built roads, and railway systems. He improved public transportation, international shipping lines, and ports.

This silver coin manicure set was handcrafted in France. It is a clever little thing, at the coin has been modified and had a small manicure set hidden away inside. The coin measures 37 mm in diameter and is 4 mm thick. It’s marked, “Depose” on the nail file and, “Eloi France” on the knife. The coin is dated “1870” and reads, “Empire Francais”, and “5”, with the crest of an eagle crossed with swords, and a cape and crown all on one side. The other side of the coin features a side profile of Napoleon III and reads, “Napoleon III” and “Empereur”, as well as, “A”, and “Barre”. There are several French hallmarks throughout this manicure set including a French maker’s mark. It weighs 25.7 grams.

It makes sense why a coin like this would still be around today, it was renovated and updated, just like Napoleon and Paris. Of course, this cute little manicure set is something I can throw in my purse and carry around all day, if only I could do the same with The City of Lights.