France Louis Philippe I 20 Francs Or (Gold), Bare Head Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold (standard historical 90/10 gold-copper alloy)
Purity: 22K (900/1000 Fineness)
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
22K (900/1000 Fineness)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard historical 90/10 gold-copper alloy)
Weight
6.45 grams (approx. 0.1867 troy oz AGW)
Description
A quintessential example of 19th-century French numismatics, this 20 Francs gold coin depicts King Louis Philippe I. Known as the 'Citizen King,' his coinage transition from 'King of France' to 'King of the French' (Roi des Français) reflects the political upheaval of the 1830 Revolution. The bare-headed portrait is rendered in a realistic, neoclassical style typical of the mid-1800s.
Key Features
Bare head portrait facing right; specific title 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS'; high-relief striking; historical Latin Monetary Union weight standard
Color & Finish
Pale to rich yellow with slight copper-induced orange toning; circulated luster with minor surface abrasions
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend: 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS'; Reverse should feature denomination '20 FRANCS' and date; Mint marks vary (e.g., A for Paris)
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter; 1.3 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; reeded edge and denticulated borders
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin); reeded edge for security
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Solid circular planchet)
Craftsmanship Details
Struck via screw press or steam-powered toggle press; excellent die engraving by Domard; consistent planchet weight and fineness control
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic typography; portrait profile matches Joseph-François Domard's designs; reeding consistency; lack of casting bubbles or typical counterfeit 'softness'
Origin & Maker
France; struck at various mints including Paris, Rouen, and Lille under different Assay Masters
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830-1848)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1830 and 1848
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward constitutional monarchy in France and the rise of the bourgeois 'Citizen King' during the industrial era
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine (XF) based on visible hair detail; moderate surface marks and edge wear visible in image; significant luster remaining
Value Estimate
$450 - $550 USD (based on approx. $410 melt value plus 10-25% numismatic premium depending on date and mint mark)
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; handle by edges only; store in PVC-free archival flips or capsules to prevent environmental toning/scratching
Similar Items
Napoleon III 20 Francs (Laureate or Bare Head), Ceres 20 Francs, Swiss 20 Franc Vreneli, Rooster 20 Francs
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was the last King to rule France; these coins were part of the Latin Monetary Union standard which influenced global gold trade for decades