2024 France 20 Cent Euro Coin Josephine Baker Commemorative
Coin - Commemorative Circulating Coin · Yellow Brass Alloy with warm golden tone, often mistaken for gold due to the Nordic Gold composition
Purity: Nordic Gold Alloy (Not Solid Gold; approx. 89% copper, 5% aluminium, 5% zinc, 1% tin)
Type
Coin - Commemorative Circulating Coin
Purity
Nordic Gold Alloy (Not Solid Gold; approx. 89% copper, 5% aluminium, 5% zinc, 1% tin)
Gold Type
Yellow Brass Alloy with warm golden tone, often mistaken for gold due to the Nordic Gold composition
Weight
5.74 grams
Description
A striking 20-cent euro coin issued by France in 2024 featuring a tribute to the iconic American-born French dancer, singer, and resistance fighter Josephine Baker. The obverse displays a profile portrait of Baker in an Art Deco inspired setting surrounded by European stars and the letters RF.
Key Features
Features Josephine Baker in profile, Art Deco background rays, 2024 year stamp, and the distinctive Spanish flower seven-lobed shape of standard 20 cent euro coins
Color & Finish
Warm golden brassy yellow with a semi-gloss business strike finish and concentric circular background textures
Hallmarks & Stamps
RF monogram representing Republique Francaise, year 2024, star symbols of the European Union, and designer initials
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter 22.25 mm, Thickness 2.14 mm, Spanish flower shape with seven indentations
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable - standard coin edge featuring seven indentations (Spanish flower)
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
High precision minting utilizing multi-strike coining presses, fine micro-engraving for background ray patterns, and exact edge scalloping
Authentication Indicators
Standard euro coin dimensions, precise mint weight, correct metallic luster of Nordic Gold alloy, sharp relief of the Josephine Baker portrait and RF stamps
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France
Era & Period
Contemporary Modern (2024 issue)
Age Estimate
Minted in 2024
Cultural Significance
Honors civil rights, performing arts history, Franco-American relations, and pioneering women through European currency design
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with minor surface hairline scratches and normal wear consistent with being handled in daily commerce, grade estimated as About Uncirculated to Mint State
Value Estimate
Face value of 20 cents, with numismatic collector value ranging from 1 to 5 US dollars depending on condition and demand
Care & Maintenance
Standard coin handling guidelines apply; store in a protective coin flip or capsule to prevent further surface oxidation and scratching
Similar Items
Other French euro commemorative coins such as the 2 euro coin celebrating the 2024 Paris Olympic Games or standard 20 cent euro coins of other member states
Interesting Facts
Josephine Baker was the first Black woman to enter the Pantheon in Paris, and this commemorative design celebrates her legacy as an artist and World War II resistance hero