Investment Types

Face Value: Definition

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Simple Definition

A bond's stated value — the amount you're repaid at maturity. Often $1,000.

Why It Matters

Face value (also called par) is the size of the loan a bond represents and the amount returned at maturity. The coupon is calculated from it. A bond's market price can trade above or below face value, but the repayment at the end is the face value.

Key Points

  • Also called "par value"; commonly $1,000 per bond
  • The coupon interest is a percentage of face value
  • Market price can be higher or lower than face value before maturity

Learn More

Foundation Lesson

What Are Bonds?

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Related Terms

Common Questions

A bond's stated value — the amount you're repaid at maturity. Often $1,000. Face value (also called par) is the size of the loan a bond represents and the amount returned at maturity. The coupon is calculated from it.

Face value (also called par) is the size of the loan a bond represents and the amount returned at maturity. The coupon is calculated from it. A bond's market price can trade above or below face value, but the repayment at the end is the face value.

Also called "par value"; commonly $1,000 per bond

The coupon interest is a percentage of face value

Market price can be higher or lower than face value before maturity