1986 France 100 Francs Piedfort Gold Proof - Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion Commemorative Piedfort) · Yellow Gold (High purity French coin alloy with a rich, deep golden tone)
Purity: 920/1000 Fineness (22K Gold). Contains 92% pure gold with 8% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion Commemorative Piedfort)
Purity
920/1000 Fineness (22K Gold). Contains 92% pure gold with 8% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High purity French coin alloy with a rich, deep golden tone)
Weight
34.0 grams (approx. 1.003 troy oz of pure gold content for the Piedfort version)
Description
A stunning heavy-weight 'Piedfort' (double thickness) strike of the 100 Francs commemorative coin. This piece features the iconic French national motto 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' in a unique stylized architectural typeface, topped with a Phrygian cap.
Key Features
Piedfort thickness (twice the standard coin weight), stylized modernist typography, and the presence of the 'Durand-Megret' signature.
Color & Finish
High-relief Proof finish with mirrored fields and frosted devices. Displays deep honey-yellow coloration typical of 22K French coinage.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved '100F' denomination, '19 86' date, and 'DURAND-MEGRET' maker's signature on the edge. Mint marks include the cornucopia (Paris Mint) and dolphin (Rousseau).
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter; Note: Piedfort versions are double the standard thickness (approx. 4.0-4.5 mm).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Relief-engraved metal design only.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or smooth edge typical of French proof coinage; no sculptural clasp as it is a coin.
Chain & Links
N/A - Solid coin construction with high-rim relief for stacking protection.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional strike quality from the Monnaie de Paris. High-pressure die striking ensures sharp corners on the lettering and a perfect mirror finish on the planchet.
Authentication Indicators
Correct 920 fineness hallmarking, precise architectural lines in the typeface, and official Paris Mint privy marks consistent with 1986 production.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by Durand-Megret.
Era & Period
Modern (1980s French Numismatic Era)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1986.
Cultural Significance
Celebrates the ideals of the French Revolution. This specific design modernizes the late 18th-century symbols of the French Republic into a 20th-century aesthetic.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (Proof). Minor surface hairlines and light contact marks visible in mirrored fields. No significant rim dings.
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by gold melt value (1 oz AGW) plus a 10-20% numismatic premium for the Piedfort rarity. Estimated value: $2,400 - $2,700 USD depending on spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Handle only by the edges with cotton gloves. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent reddish copper spotting (toning).
Similar Items
Standard 17g 100 Francs Gold Coin (half weight), Swiss Vreneli, or British Gold Sovereigns.
Interesting Facts
The word 'Piedfort' literally means 'heavy foot' or 'strong foot'. These were historically produced as prestige pieces for dignitaries rather than for general circulation.