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

At the time, typical shares were issued with a face value of $100 each, known as par value.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

But if those assets’ value declines, stablecoins may not be able to maintain par value.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

After the market close, Avis filed an automatic regulatory filing for the offer and sale “from time to time” of common stock, par value $0.01 per share.

From Barron's • 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

She accepted the sailor’s statement regarding drowning quite at its par value.

From Carolyn of the Corners by Endicott, Ruth Belmore