From the 19th century onwards, this interest extended to national coins, and saw the development of a milieu of enlightened enthusiasts eager to discuss and communicate their discoveries.

The society initially operated like a club, meeting four times a month in its premises, which included a library and a small collection of coins, near Boulevard Saint-Germain.

The number of members quickly grew, reaching 650 in 1869, before experiencing a period of crisis between 1860 and 1880 characterized by a decline in membership and financial difficulties.

From the mid-1880s onwards, a closer collaboration with the Cabinet des Médailles and a revival in publications (the 3rd series of the Revue Numismatique) helped to overcome these difficulties.

The same year saw the publication of the Bulletin de la Société, which reports on the work presented at the monthly meetings and on current events.