Depicts a rectangle burning fasces in the centre, around four sides of rectangle inscription National Institute of Science and Arts, on the sides and above laurel branches; date and the national motto of France (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) below.

Fasces (from the Latin word fascis, meaning "bundle") is a bound bundle of wooden rods, sometimes including an axe with its blade emerging. The fasces typically appeared in a context reminiscent of the Roman Republic and of the Roman Empire. The French Revolution used many references to the ancient Roman Republic in its imagery. During the First Republic, topped by the Phrygian cap, the fasces is a tribute to the Roman Republic and means that power belongs to the people. It also symbolizes the "unity and indivisibility of the Republic", as stated in the French Constitution. There is the fasces in the arms of the French Republic with the "RF" for République française. While it is used widely by French officials, this symbol never was officially adopted by the government.

Depicts the dome of the Institut de France building divides denomination, country name above, date below. Engraver's initials below the value.

Mint mark: Cornucopia, horn of plenty (Paris Mint, Pessac)
Privy mark of the Mint Chief Engraver: Bee - Pierre Rodier (1994-2000)