1982 French 100 Francs Gold Coin - Pantheon Commemorative
Coin - Gold Bullion/Commemorative · Yellow Gold - Standard monetary alloy with copper, which provides durability for circulation and a warm reddish-yellow tone.
Purity: 22K (.900 Fineness) - 90% gold and 10% copper alloy. It contains approximately 0.4917 troy ounces of actual gold content.
Type
Coin - Gold Bullion/Commemorative
Purity
22K (.900 Fineness) - 90% gold and 10% copper alloy. It contains approximately 0.4917 troy ounces of actual gold content.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold - Standard monetary alloy with copper, which provides durability for circulation and a warm reddish-yellow tone.
Weight
17.00 grams (Gross weight); Net gold weight is 15.30 grams (.4917 oz agw).
Description
An iconic French commemorative gold coin featuring the reverse inscription of the national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' and the value 100F. The obverse (not fully shown) typically features the Pantheon in Paris. This piece exhibits unusual surface toning for a gold coin, likely due to long-term storage in a reactive environment or high-copper alloy interaction.
Key Features
Bold architectural typography on the reverse, French National Motto, and the distinct 1982 strike date. It is a 'Large Gold' format coin favored by European investors.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold with a significant iridescent patina or heavy oxidation on the surface (toning). Originally struck with a satin-to-brilliant finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and Dolphin (Engraver General Emile Rousseau mark). Face value '100 F' and date '1982' are clearly visible.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter, 1.9 mm in thickness. Standard size for the 100 Francs gold series.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal coin with no decorative stones or enamel.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The edge is smooth with lettering 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin has a reeded or inscribed edge consistent with Paris Mint production.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-struck production from the Paris Mint. Precise lettering and balanced proportions consistent with official state-issued currency.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles for the '100F' and motto, presence of the Monnaie de Paris mint marks, and consistent rim thickness. The heavy oxidation is a typical red flag for gold-plated base metal, necessitating a weight/SG test.
Origin & Maker
France - Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). One of the world's oldest continuously running minting institutions.
Era & Period
Modern Period (Late 20th Century). Designed by Joaquín Jiménez/Emile Rousseau.
Age Estimate
Dated 1982; approximately 42 years old.
Cultural Significance
The motto 'Liberty, Equality, Fraternity' represents the core values of the French Republic established during the French Revolution.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated/Toned). The surface show significant atmospheric toning/discoloration that may impact numismatic eye appeal, though the strike depth remains strong with minimal physical wear.
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by melt value (approx. $1,150 - $1,250 based on current spot prices) with a small numismatic premium of 5-10% if authenticated.
Care & Maintenance
Do not scrub or use harsh chemicals to remove the toning, as this can scratch the soft gold surface. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule.
Similar Items
French 20 Francs (Marianne/Rooster), Swiss 20 Francs (Vreneli), and the modern 100 Euro gold commemoratives.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs gold coin was part of a revival of French gold coinage in the 1980s intended to honor French heritage while providing a mid-range bullion option.