Louis Philippe I, 20 Francs or 40 Francs Gold Coin (Replica Identification Required)
Gold Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Assumed Yellow Gold (historically 90% gold, 10% copper alloy)
Purity: Likely 90% Gold (21.6K) or Base Metal Replica
Type
Gold Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
Likely 90% Gold (21.6K) or Base Metal Replica
Gold Type
Assumed Yellow Gold (historically 90% gold, 10% copper alloy)
Weight
6.45 grams (20 Fr) or 12.9 grams (40 Fr) if genuine
Description
An obverse view of a French gold coin featuring the bare head of King Louis Philippe I facing right. The portrait, engraved by Joseph-François Domard, is surrounded by the circular inscription ‘LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS’. The coin exhibits a distinct grey-gold patina typical of low-grade gold or silver-plated replicas stored in high-sulfur environments.
Key Features
Bare-headed portrait (Tête Nue), 'DOMARD.F.' signature at the base of the neck, and denticulated border.
Color & Finish
Dull greyish-champagne tone; satin/circulated finish with significant surface scratches and localized oxidation
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraver signature 'DOMARD.F.' on obverse; Legend: 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS'
Dimensions Estimate
21mm (20 Fr) or 26mm (40 Fr) diameter; standard coinage thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None (Reeded edge detail typical of historical French gold coinage)
Chain & Links
N/A (Reeded or Lettered edge depending on specific denomination/year)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; fine detail in the hair curls and beard; well-centered with consistent rim denticles.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: The color is unusually grey/silver for high-karat gold; suspect a plated counterfeit or a silver variant of the same die. Recommend weight and XRF testing.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint or various regional French mints)
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830–1848)
Age Estimate
Circa 1831–1848 (if genuine); mid-20th century to modern if replica
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from absolute monarchy to a constitutional 'bourgeois' monarchy in 19th-century post-revolutionary France.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) numismatic details but with significant surface 'chatter' and suspicious discoloration at the neck line suggesting possible base-metal exposure.
Value Estimate
Melt value ~$450-$900 if genuine gold; $1-$5 as a base-metal replica/token.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish if genuine; store in a PVC-free archival coin flip. Avoid contact with household chemicals.
Similar Items
Napoleon III 20 Francs (Gold), Louis XVIII 20 Francs, contemporary silver 5 Francs (similar design but larger).
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was known as the 'Citizen King' and his coinage was the first to replace 'King of France' with 'King of the French'.