face value

American  

[feys val-yoo, feys val-yoo] / ˈfeɪs ˌvæl yu, ˈfeɪs ˈvæl yu /

noun

1. the value printed on the face of a stock, bond, or other financial instrument or document.

2. apparent value.

   Do not accept promises at face value.

---

face value British  

noun

1. the value written or stamped on the face of a commercial paper or coin

2. apparent worth or value, as opposed to real worth

---

face value Idioms  

1. see at face value.

---

Etymology

Origin of face value

First recorded in 1875–80

Compare meaning

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

• par value vs. face value

Example Sentences

The bill would impose price caps on tickets sold in the resale market, limiting prices to no more than 10% above the ticket’s face value.

From Los Angeles Times

So, he issued more of England’s silver coins at familiar face values, while gradually changing the base metal to mostly copper with silver coating.

From Barron's

"If we take it at face value, yes, this case could obviously have been avoided," she said.

From Barron's

The First Trust Institutional Preferred Securities & Income ETF also yields nearly 6% and offers access to the $1,000 face value preferred market geared mainly to institutions.

From Barron's

Luckily, the secondary market will be properly regulated in 2026, with the government announcing laws to stop touts reselling tickets for more than face value.

From BBC