Definition of "face value"

face value

noun
countable and uncountable, plural face values
1. The amount or value listed on a bill, note, stamp, etc.; the stated value or amount.
2. (idiomatic) No more or less than what is stated; a literal or direct meaning or interpretation.
  Quotations
  Few museums have such a coherent collection that covers so many different areas of interest as the London Transport Museum. At face value, it is a collection of urban transport in London. In reality, it is so much more.
  2020 June 3, Sam Mullins OBE discusses with Stefanie Foster, “LTM: a new chapter begins at 40”, in Rail, page 52