1855 French cinq franc - with a surprise inside.

Had this in my junk silver stash, the coin is real and can also chop onions. But, why?

 

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Handy thing to have to keep your fingernails nicely trimmed.
The hallmarks on the coin are an interesting addition.
Can you show an edge photo to?

Someone posted a similar item not long ago, it was more of a container
with a flip type opening.

 

Here are the closeups. I think the mint mark is BB

 

Yes it is a BB mintmark. There is also a diamond shaped hallmark and posibly a small makers mark inclused on both sides, one below the bust and one above the crown. They were added post mint.
It is an interesting item.

 

Nice older version. These have been made over the years. The modern versions are not made from the original coins and are marked "Japan".

 

Modern made as in Post-WW2, but I couldn't be more specific than that.

 

i have the same exact one, with nothing inside mine, though, thought it =was an old lighter, guess i was wrong...

 

mine only haseth but one rivet

 

did not think that it was, also is stamped japan on side that swings out, it is just a weird thing numismatic related, i like weird things...especially things that are weopons that do not look as such, i.e. lipstick and hairbrush and pen knives, etc..

 

Remind me a bit of opium dollars. Perhaps made for places where a knife wasn't allowed or was discouraged?

 

I wonder whether mine would get past airport security? I have lost several pocket knives at ballparks and theater security entrances.

 

I believe this is a cigar cutter.

 

It is also possible that it is still a real coin, even with the Japan stamp. As who ever created these could have stamped them with the company location that designed this little novelty device.

 

i posted the box awhile ago. i like weird coin things as well. mine is 2 halves with the middle ring soldered to it. ive seen several of those knife coins on ebay