The obverse shows an allegorical France and the words "French Republic" around the rim. This coin features the words "Liberty, Egality, Fraternity" and the date on the reverse. A fellow collector provided some background on the figure:

"The 1899 5 centimes features designs by the engraver Jean-Baptiste Daniel-Dupuis (1849-1899). The reverse design is known as La République protégeant l'Enfance. It is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau and as the reverse image on your coin is a little worn, you may be interested in a description. A female figure representing 'La Republique' is seated, wearing a helmet surmounted by a cockerel and holding an olive spray and spear. A young child to her left representing 'l'Enfance' is holding a spray of wheat in his right hand and a hammer in his left. The engraver's signature 'DANIEL DUPUIS' is at the lower left. There is rather a sad story attached to this engraver. Created an Officer of the Légion d'Honneur in 1898, he died on the 14th November 1899, killed by his depressed wife, who committed suicide afterwards."

I got this one at a flea market in Geneva.