French Republic General La Fayette Commemorative Gold Medal
Commemorative Medal / Numismatic Piece · Yellow Gold or more likely White-Tone (White Gold/Silver) based on visual silver-grey hue and patina. Alloys typically include silver, nickel, or palladium if white; copper and silver if yellow.
Purity: Varies by issue; typically 18K (750) or 22K (916) solid gold. Purity represents 75% to 91.6% pure gold content mixed with copper and silver alloys. Note: Silver versions of this medal are common, appearing as white gold or silver-plated.
Type
Commemorative Medal / Numismatic Piece
Purity
Varies by issue; typically 18K (750) or 22K (916) solid gold. Purity represents 75% to 91.6% pure gold content mixed with copper and silver alloys. Note: Silver versions of this medal are common, appearing as white gold or silver-plated.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold or more likely White-Tone (White Gold/Silver) based on visual silver-grey hue and patina. Alloys typically include silver, nickel, or palladium if white; copper and silver if yellow.
Weight
Typically 15 to 30 grams (approx. 0.5 - 1.0 troy oz) for standard commemorative sizes. Solid strikes carry significant density; weight is a primary value driver for commemorative medals.
Description
A stately commemorative medal featuring the profile of Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette. The obverse displays a high-relief bust of the General in military uniform, hair tied in a queue, facing left. The legend reads 'GENERAL LA FAYETTE' and 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE'. The piece serves as a tribute to the Franco-American hero of the American Revolution.
Key Features
Duvivier artist signature, high-relief portraiture, French Republic iconography, and historical association with the 'Hero of Two Worlds'.
Color & Finish
Polished silver-grey tone with significant dark oxidation and rim patina. Surface exhibits a semi-matte strike with high-relief details and some contact marks consistent with handled numismatic items.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia hallmark (Monnaie de Paris) usually found on the edge with a metal purity stamp (e.g., '1' for 18K or 'OR' for gold). Signature 'B. DUVIVIER' is visible below the bust.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 30mm to 40mm in diameter; thickness of 2mm to 3mm. Comparable to a standard silver dollar or large bullion coin.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Decorative focus is entirely on the high-relief numismatic engraving.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Edge is typically smooth or lettered depending on the specific minting year.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Rim is raised to protect the field and portrait details.
Craftsmanship Details
Master-level die engraving with exceptional hair and uniform detail. Struck from hardened steel dies with high pressure to achieve the distinctive French mint finish.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of lettering and the 'DUVIVIER' signature; edge marks (cornucopia); correct weight for diameter. Red flag: Color appears more consistent with silver/white metal; a gold version would require XRF testing to confirm it isn't gold-white alloy or silver-gilt.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by Benjamin Duvivier (1730–1819), Chief Engraver of the Mint.
Era & Period
Contemporary strike based on a Neoclassical 18th-century design. The original design by Duvivier dates to the late 1700s, but this is a modern restrike (20th century).
Age Estimate
Likely mid-to-late 20th century production (circa 1950-1980) as a restrike of the historical Duvivier medal.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring alliance between France and the United States. Lafayette is a symbol of democratic revolution and remains one of the few individuals to be granted honorary U.S. citizenship.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (Numismatic Grade). Surface shows minor abrasions, darkening across the fields, and rim nicks. No major structural damage, but the patina suggests it has not been professionally stored in a capsule.
Value Estimate
If solid 18K gold: $1,200 - $1,800 USD based on gold weight + 10-20% premium. If silver: $50 - $120 USD. Market value is highly sensitive to metal verification.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it removes the historical patina and decreases numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or airtight capsule. Handle only by the edges.
Similar Items
1789 Lafayette 'Commandant de la Garde Nationale' medals; US 1900 Lafayette Silver Dollar; modern Monnaie de Paris historical restrikes in bronze, silver, or gold.
Interesting Facts
Lafayette was a major general in the Continental Army under George Washington. Medals by Duvivier are highly prized; he was the same engraver who created the 'Washington Before Boston' medal, the first medal authorized by the Continental Congress.