1986 France 100 Francs Piedfort Gold Coin - Statuette de la Liberté
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold Piedfort) · Yellow Gold (Traditional alloy for French coinage, prioritizing durability and rich hue).
Purity: 920/1000 (22.08K) or 900/1000 (21.6K) depending on variety; typically 92% gold content.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold Piedfort)
Purity
920/1000 (22.08K) or 900/1000 (21.6K) depending on variety; typically 92% gold content.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional alloy for French coinage, prioritizing durability and rich hue).
Weight
34.0 grams (Typical Piedfort weight for this series, being double the thickness of standard issues).
Description
A stunning heavy-weight gold piedfort coin celebrating the French-American friendship. It features the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' in a stylized modern font, topped by a Phrygian cap. The 100 Francs denomination and 1986 date are prominently displayed at the bottom.
Key Features
Double thickness 'Piedfort' strike, modern geometric typography, and the Phrygian cap symbol of the French Republic.
Color & Finish
Brilliant Uncirculated to Proof-like finish; rich bright yellow with frosted relief and mirror-like fields.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris) and various engraver marks (DURAND-MEGRET) on the edge or field.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, approximately 4.2 mm thickness (Piedfort double-thickness).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies on high-relief numismatic engraving and a Phrygian cap motif.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or smooth edge typical of French commemorative strikes; no mechanical closure.
Chain & Links
N/A - Circular planchet with a flat, vertical edge designed for stacking or display.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure strike from polished dies; exceptionally crisp lettering and architectural layout typical of 1980s French minting technology.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the 'DURAND-MEGRET' signature, correct spacing of date numerals, and the specific frosted luster of Monnaie de Paris strikes.
Origin & Maker
France, Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint); Designed by Durand-Mégret.
Era & Period
Contemporary (1980s Modern Commemorative Era).
Age Estimate
Issued in 1986 to commemorate the centennial of the Statue of Liberty.
Cultural Significance
A tribute to the centenary of the Statue of Liberty (1886-1986), a gift from France to the United States.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (some surface hairlines and finger marks visible in the image); Grade: AU/UNC details.
Value Estimate
Approximately $2,300 - $2,600 USD (Significant premium over gold melt value due to 'Piedfort' rarity and 1oz+ gold weight).
Care & Maintenance
Avoid touching the proof-like fields with bare hands; store in a non-PVC airtight capsule; do not polish to preserve numismatic value.
Similar Items
Standard 17g 100 Francs Gold Statue of Liberty, US Mint 1986 Liberty Half Eagle, French 50 Francs Hercules Gold.
Interesting Facts
The term 'Piedfort' literally means 'heavy foot' or 'strong foot,' referring to a coin struck on a planchet twice as thick as normal.