French 100 Francs Gold Coin - La Fayette / Liberté Égalité Fraternité (1988)
Coin (Bullion, Commemorative, Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (Standard French Monetary Alloy)
Purity: 22K (.900 Fineness). This purity signifies a composition of 90% pure gold and 10% copper or other alloys to improve durability for circulation and handling.
Type
Coin (Bullion, Commemorative, Numismatic)
Purity
22K (.900 Fineness). This purity signifies a composition of 90% pure gold and 10% copper or other alloys to improve durability for circulation and handling.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Standard French Monetary Alloy)
Weight
17 grams total weight, containing approximately 15.3 grams (0.4919 troy oz) of pure gold content.
Description
A striking example of French numismatic art, this 100 Franc gold coin features a modern typographic interpretation of the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' over a stylized Phrygian cap. The design represents a bridge between traditional French revolutionary symbols and late 20th-century aesthetic minimalism. While historically significant as part of the Pre-Euro currency era, it is highly sought after today for its high gold content.
Key Features
Modernist vertical typography of the national motto, the inclusion of the 'Phrygian Cap' symbol, the '100 F' denomination, and the 'Durand-Megret' signature on the right rim.
Color & Finish
Lustrous golden yellow with a proof-like or uncirculated finish. The surface shows a reflective background with sharp, frost-like relief on the lettering. Significant dark toning and patina are visible across the obverse field.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and the engraver's mark (Durand-Megret) visible on the right periphery near the rim. Stamped with face value '100 F' and date '1988'.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter and approximately 2.1 mm in thickness. Standard crown-sized commemorative issue.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a solid metal struck bullion/numismatic coin.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (coin). The edge is reeded (milled) to prevent metal shaving and counterfeiting.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge features standard vertical reeding consistent with late 20th-century French minting.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at the Monnaie de Paris. Precision milling on the edge, high-relief lettering with clean fields, and expertly balanced proportions typical of French state-produced bullion.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the strike, characteristic Paris Mint cornucopia mark, correct weight-to-diameter ratio for .900 gold, and specific 'Durand-Megret' signature typography. Red flag: The heavy dark toning is unusual for high-karat gold but can occur if stored in PVC flips or high-sulfur environments.
Origin & Maker
France; Struck by the Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Designed by artist Durand-Megret.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). Issued during the Fifth French Republic to commemorate the bicentenary of the French Revolution/La Fayette.
Age Estimate
Dated 1988; approximately 36 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring legacy of the French Revolution's ideals. The motto 'Liberty, Equality, Fraternity' is the national maxim of France and the Republic of Haiti, appearing on coins and stamps as a symbol of democratic heritage.
Condition Notes
Grade: About Uncirculated (AU-58) to Mint State (MS-60). Structurally sound with sharp details, but exhibits heavy surface oxidation/toning (dark patches) and light handling marks/hairlines in the fields.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold melt content (approx. 0.49 oz x current gold spot price) plus a small numismatic collector premium of 5-10% depending on the buyer.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish, as this removes the numismatic premium. Store in a PVC-free airtight coin capsule to prevent further oxidation. Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves.
Similar Items
1988 Silver 100 Francs (same design, different metal), Swiss 20 Francs (Vreneli), or the French 20 Francs 'Rooster' coins which are more common for bullion investors.
Interesting Facts
This coin was part of a series honoring the Marquis de La Fayette, a hero of both the American and French Revolutions. It was minted just a few years before France began the transition to the Euro.