1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette Commemorative Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Yellow Gold with a slight rose/warm undertone due to its 92% purity and copper alloy characteristic of French gold coinage.
Purity: 920 Fine Gold (22 Karat), containing 92% gold and 8% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
920 Fine Gold (22 Karat), containing 92% gold and 8% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight rose/warm undertone due to its 92% purity and copper alloy characteristic of French gold coinage.
Weight
17 grams total weight, with approximately 15.64 grams (0.5028 troy oz) of fine gold content.
Description
A prestigious commemorative gold coin issued by the French Republic to honor the Marquis de La Fayette. The reverse design features a bold, stylized typographic arrangement of the French national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' above the denomination. It represents a bridge between French numismatic tradition and modern 1980s graphic design.
Key Features
Stylized Art Deco-influenced typography; 'RF' monogram; date '1987' split by the vertical pillar design; dual-purpose bullion and collectible appeal.
Color & Finish
Warm deep yellow; features a Proof or semi-prooflike finish with frosted relief (device) against a mirrored field, though significantly darkened by surface toning/patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved '100F' (Denomination), '1987' (Date), 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' (Legend), and 'RF' for Republique Francaise. Tiny cornucopia and dolphin mint marks visible.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter, approximately 2 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; purely metallic numismatic strike.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge design for security and metallic integrity.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; reeded (milled) edge to prevent metal clipping or shaving.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure machine-struck die work; exceptional verticality in the lettering; consistent reeded edge; characteristic high-purity French minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font set for the 1987 issue; presence of correct French mint marks; correct split-date alignment at the bottom; reeding appears consistent with Monnaie de Paris standards.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century); Modernist French design commemorating the bicentennial of the French-American relationship via Marquis de La Fayette.
Age Estimate
Dated 1987; approximately 37 years old as of current assessment.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the 'Eternal Friendship' between France and the United States, rooted in the Enlightenment ideals of 'Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.'
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; significant surface environmental toning or organic residue is visible across the fields, though no major structural dings are evident. Luster is muted by the surface film.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content (melt value based on ~0.5oz AU) plus a numismatic premium of 5-10% depending on the buyer. Currently estimated between $1,100 - $1,300 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not scrub or use abrasive cleaners; the toning may actually be preferred by some collectors. Store in a PVC-free air-tight capsule to prevent further oxidation or fingerprints.
Similar Items
1987 Silver 100 Francs (larger, white metal); 1989 French Gold 100 Francs (Bicentenary of the Revolution); 22K Gold Sovereigns (smaller weight).
Interesting Facts
This coin was issued to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the arrival of La Fayette in America. While 100 Francs silver coins were common, the gold version is a much more restricted mintage aimed at investors and collectors.