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.

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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

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face value Idioms  

1. see at face value.

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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

But on FIFA’s official platform, resale above face value isn’t permitted for Mexico matches.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

The most expensive ticket for the final in 2022 was around $1,600 at face value, while in 2026 it is about $11,000.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

Investors should be wary of taking any employment numbers at face value.

From MarketWatch • May 7, 2026

For the opener against Croatia, the two tickets cost £1,406 - the face value being £517.

From BBC • May 3, 2026

At face value, the Russian Revolution had little to do with genes.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee