1982 France 100 Francs Panthéon Commemorative Silver Coin
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · None (Silver Alloy). The coin has a bright white metallic luster characteristic of high-purity silver rather than gold.
Purity: 0% (This is a Silver Coin). Form: 900 Fine Silver (90% pure silver, 10% copper). Identifying a gold item in the image is incorrect; this is a silver-toned commemorative issue.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
0% (This is a Silver Coin). Form: 900 Fine Silver (90% pure silver, 10% copper). Identifying a gold item in the image is incorrect; this is a silver-toned commemorative issue.
Gold Type
None (Silver Alloy). The coin has a bright white metallic luster characteristic of high-purity silver rather than gold.
Weight
15.0 grams (0.4822 troy oz ASW). Weight is consistent with the Monnaie de Paris standard for the 100 Francs Piedfort-style series.
Description
A beautiful French commemorative 100 Francs coin featuring the Panthéon in Paris. The obverse depicts the grand architectural facade of the monument with the inscription 'AUX GRANDS HOMMES LA PATRIE RECONNAISSANTE' (To great men, the grateful homeland). The design is clean, neoclassical, and emblematic of French national pride and architectural heritage.
Key Features
Depiction of the Panthéon dome and columns; dual mint marks (Cornucopia/Dolphin); 1982 date; large '100 Francs' denomination on reverse (not shown in image).
Color & Finish
Bright silver with a Proof-like or Uncirculated finish. Features a matte frosting on the relief (Panthéon) against a semi-reflective field, characteristic of early 1980s French minting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and Dolphin (Emile Rousseau, General Engraver mark) located on either side of the 1982 date. 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE' and '100 FRANCS' (on reverse) are standard stamps.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 31.0 mm; Thickness: Approx 2.1 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is a struck metal coin with no decorative stones or enamel.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin). The edge is reeded (milled) to prevent clipping or counterfeiting.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The rim is raised to protect the design from surface wear.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck with high pressure. The architectural lines of the Panthéon columns are crisp and symmetrical, showing the high precision of Monnaie de Paris engraving technology.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the lettering; correct 'Dolphin' mark for the 1982-1994 period; consistent denticles around the rim. Magnet test would confirm it is non-magnetic as expected for 90% silver.
Origin & Maker
France; Struck by the Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Designed by the workshop under Emile Rousseau.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Fifth Republic). Issued in 1982 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the restoration of the Panthéon as a secular temple.
Age Estimate
Dated 1982; 42 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the secular and intellectual values of the French Republic, honoring the 'Great Men' of history. The coin serves as a bridge between currency and national monument appreciation.
Condition Notes
Excellent (Uncirculated/Proof-like). Sharp devices, minimal bag marks, no visible oxidation or toning. Luster remains high.
Value Estimate
Melt value is approximately $12-15 USD based on silver spot; Collector value ranges from $20 to $35 USD depending on specific eye appeal and buyer demand.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule to prevent sulfur-induced toning (blackening). Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Handle only by the edges.
Similar Items
1984 100 Francs 'Marie Curie'; 1985 100 Francs 'Germinal'; also silver 50 Francs Hercules, which was the predecessor for large silver denominations.
Interesting Facts
The Panthéon was originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve but eventually became a necropolis for distinguished French citizens such as Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. This was the first year of the 100 Francs silver series.