face value

noun

1

: the value indicated on the face (as of a postage stamp or a stock certificate)

2

: the apparent value or significance

if their remarks may be taken at face value

Examples of face value in a Sentence

We paid $100 for tickets that had a face value of $50.

Recent Examples on the Web

Every human culture known to science has some form of dance – remarkable for something that, on face value, does not satisfy any basic need for sustenance or procreation. —Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2026

Authorities say the resale price depended on the face value of the check, and purchases were made via several electronic payment platforms. —Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 30 Jan. 2026

The face value of each ticket was $475. —Michael Butler, Miami Herald, 20 Jan. 2026

For over a decade, scalpers openly camped out at gas stations, motels and restaurant parking lots near the club, selling badges above face value. —Sofia Chierchio, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for face value

• eigenvalue
• undervalue

Kids Definition

face value

noun

1

: the value indicated on the face of something (as a coin, bill, bond, or insurance policy)

2

: the apparent worth or significance

can't take what he says at face value

Legal Definition

face value

noun

: the value indicated on the face of something (as a stock certificate)