French Louis XVIII 40 Francs Gold Coin (1816 L, Bayonne Mint)
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century French alloy with a warm, slightly copper-influenced hue).
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coin is composed of 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coin is composed of 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century French alloy with a warm, slightly copper-influenced hue).
Weight
12.90 grams (Gross weight); contains 11.61 grams (0.3733 troy oz) of pure gold.
Description
A striking historical artifact of the French Restoration, this 40 Francs gold coin represents the return of the Bourbon monarchy. The reverse depicts an ornate crown resting atop a shield containing three fleurs-de-lis, framed by a lush laurel wreath. The 'L' mint mark is particularly desirable for collectors of regional French mintages.
Key Features
Double the weight of the more common 20 Francs 'Napoleon' coins; features the Bourbon coat of arms instead of a portrait (on this side); 'L' mint mark for Bayonne which had lower mintage than Paris ('A').
Color & Finish
Rich yellow with an aged satin luster. Noticeable surface dings and light scratches consistent with circulation; the reverse shows a crown and laurel wreath over a fleurs-de-lis shield.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse features '40 F' (denomination), '1816' (mintage year), and 'L' (mint mark for Bayonne). Smaller privy marks for the master engraver (Tirolier) are typically present flanking the date.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 26 mm and a thickness of approximately 1.8 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies on high-relief numismatic engraving of the Bourbon coat of arms and laurel branches.
Clasp & Closure
None. The coin features a reeded edge (grooved) as a security measure against 'clipping' or shaving gold from the edges.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the structured 'L' mint mark indicates the coin was hand-fed into a screw press or early steam press.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using high-pressure dies. The execution of the heraldic shield and the sharp reeding of the edge demonstrate the high standards of early 19th-century French minting technology.
Authentication Indicators
The 'L' mint mark and date '1816' are consistent with known Bayonne issues. The reeded edge and the specific font height of '40 F' align with genuine Michaut designs. Weight and diameter must be verified with calipers and a milligram scale.
Origin & Maker
France, Bayonne Mint (indicated by the letter 'L'). Designed by Auguste-François Michaut.
Era & Period
Bourbon Restoration (1814-1830). Specifically produced during the second reign of Louis XVIII following the fall of Napoleon.
Age Estimate
Struck in 1816; approximately 208 years old.
Cultural Significance
Symbolized the political shift in Europe after the Napoleonic Wars, moving from revolutionary/imperial imagery back to traditional royalist symbols like the fleurs-de-lis.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible rim dings and surface contact marks. Detail on the laurel leaves remains clear, though the high points of the crown show wear. Structural integrity is sound.
Value Estimate
The value is roughly $950 - $1,150 USD based on a mix of gold melt value (approx. $850-$900) plus a numismatic premium for the date and the specific Bayonne mint mark.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; numismatic value is severely damaged by abrasives. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip to prevent further surface scratches and environmental toning.
Similar Items
20 Francs Louis XVIII Gold Coin (half the weight); 40 Francs Napoleon I (Emperor portrait); 40 Lire Sardinia (Italian contemporary at same gold weight).
Interesting Facts
The 40 Francs was the highest regular denomination gold coin of the era. The 1816 L issue had a relatively small mintage of 31,438 pieces, making it significantly scarcer than the Paris versions.