French 20 Francs 'Marianne-Rooster' (Coq Gauloise) Gold Bullion Coins
Gold Coin (Bullion and Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (Classic French alloy with a slight warm/reddish tint due to 10% copper content).
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness), consisting of 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Type
Gold Coin (Bullion and Numismatic)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness), consisting of 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic French alloy with a slight warm/reddish tint due to 10% copper content).
Weight
6.45 grams each (Gross Weight); contains 5.80 grams (0.1867 troy oz) of fine gold per coin.
Description
A collection of 15 authentic French 20 Francs gold coins featuring the iconic 'Marianne' profile designed by J.C. Chaplain. These coins represented the pinnacle of French monetary stability during the Latin Monetary Union. They are highly sought after by European investors for their fractional gold content and historical significance.
Key Features
Chaplain's signature below Marianne's bust; distinct Phrygian cap and oak leaf wreath; high relief compared to modern bullion.
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow-gold with a warm rose-tinted patina typical of older French coinage; varieties seen in image show circulated lustre and semi-matte surfaces.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' and the profile of Marianne; Reverse (not visible): 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE', 20 FRANCS, and the Gauloise Rooster.
Dimensions Estimate
21mm Diameter; 1.3mm Thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None (standard bullion coinage).
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge finishing (original 1899-1906) or lettered edge 'Dieu Protège la France' (some 1907-1914 issues).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; coins are individual loose units, some showing signs of being formerly set in jewelry mounts (slight edge wear).
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at the Paris Mint using high-pressure mechanical presses; features finely detailed hair strands and crisp border denticles.
Authentication Indicators
Obverse lettering alignment, correct profile curvature, and characteristic 'C.CHAPLAIN' engraver signature. Red flags would include casting bubbles or weight deviation from 6.45g.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France; marked with the Cornucopia mint mark.
Era & Period
Belle Époque / Third Republic era (specifically 1899–1914 production).
Age Estimate
Dated between 1899 and 1914; note that 37 million 'restrike' coins were also officially produced in Paris between 1951-1960 using original dies.
Cultural Significance
Marianne is the national personification of the French Republic, representing liberty and reason; she remains a powerful symbol of French identity today.
Condition Notes
Estimated grades range from Fine to Extremely Fine (XF). Several coins show surface contact marks ('bag marks') and slight circulation wear on the highest points of Marianne's hair and laurel.
Value Estimate
Valued at current gold spot price x 0.1867 per coin, plus a typical collector premium of 5-10%. Total estimated value for 15 coins: ~$6,500 - $7,000 USD depending on market spot.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent scratches and surface oils.
Similar Items
Swiss 20 Francs (Vreneli), Italian 20 Lire, Belgian 20 Francs (Leopold II), and British Sovereigns.
Interesting Facts
The 'Marianne-Rooster' is the most traded gold coin in France. The 1950s restrikes are indistinguishable from the 1907-1914 originals, creating a unique situation where 'new' old coins exist.