1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette Commemorative Coin (Silver Version)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Not gold; likely silver with heavy surface oxidation and tarnish. Often referred to as 'Grey Gold' in loose terminology for its metallic sheen, but numismatically it is silver.
Purity: Non-gold; typically 0.900 (90%) Fine Silver. This specific item appears to be the silver issue of the 100 Francs series, not the gold Proof version.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-gold; typically 0.900 (90%) Fine Silver. This specific item appears to be the silver issue of the 100 Francs series, not the gold Proof version.
Gold Type
Not gold; likely silver with heavy surface oxidation and tarnish. Often referred to as 'Grey Gold' in loose terminology for its metallic sheen, but numismatically it is silver.
Weight
15.00 grams (Standard weight for the 100 Francs silver commemorative series).
Description
A French 100 Francs commemorative coin celebrating the bicentenary of the 1787 meeting between La Fayette and Washington. It features a bold, almost graffiti-style modernist typographic rendering of the French Republic motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'.
Key Features
Stylized 'Y' motif representing the junction of French and American revolutionary ideals, bold linear design, and distinct 1980s French numismatic typography.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with significant mottled dark tarnish and patina. The finish is originally mint luster (BU/Proof-like) but now shows environmental oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved '100F' (Denomination), '1987' (Date), 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' (Motto). Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and Dolphin (Emile Rousseau) privy marks.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter; 2.1 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely struck metal with modernist typographic elements.
Clasp & Closure
Plain reeded edge; common for French 100F commemoratives to prevent clipping.
Chain & Links
N/A; Solid metal planchet construction. Edge features a vertical reed pattern.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by high-pressure steam or hydraulic press; sharp edges on the secondary lettering indicate a quality Monnaie de Paris strike.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles, specific mint marks (cornucopia), and alignment of the year '1987' within the base bars. The tarnish pattern is consistent with silver alloy aging.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France.
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century). Designed by G. Durand, reflecting the modernist aesthetics of the 1980s.
Age Estimate
37 years old; dated 1987.
Cultural Significance
Commemorates the Marquis de Lafayette and the historical alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant surface tarnish/toning across both fields; does not appear to have major scratches but environmental exposure has dulled the original luster.
Value Estimate
Approximately $12 - $20 USD (mostly silver melt value + small numismatic premium). Gold versions of this design trade for over $1,200 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; use a lint-free cloth or a professional silver dip if necessary. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1986 Statue of Liberty 100 Francs; 1989 French Revolution Bicentennial 100 Francs; 1987 1/2oz Gold version of the same design.
Interesting Facts
While this design also exists in a 17g .920 Gold version, the color and surface reaction seen here are hallmark characteristics of the much more common 15g silver issue.