par value

American  

noun

1. face value.

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par value British  

noun

1. Also called: face value.  the value imprinted on the face of a share certificate or bond and used to assess dividend, capital ownership, or interest Compare market value book value

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Etymology

Origin of par value

First recorded in 1800–10

Compare meaning

How does par-value compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• par value vs. face value
• par value vs. market value

Example Sentences

The sale price for the February deal, at 99.7% of par value, looked remarkably high, considering the recent pressure on private-credit valuations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

Blue Owl highlighted that the loan sales were for 99.7% of par value, which it said was evidence of the confidence that large, experienced buyers have in its direct lending platform.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 19, 2026

These trade over the counter, like corporate bonds, in contrast to $25 par value preferreds that trade on exchanges and are much easier for individual investors to access.

From Barron's • Dec. 4, 2025

Banks can now borrow against the par value - and not the lower market value - of their bond portfolios.

From Reuters • Mar. 14, 2023

A credit union may be organized by any seven or more persons with a share capital the par value of which shall not exceed $25.

From Readings in Money and Banking Selected and Adapted by Phillips, Chester Arthur