French 20 Francs Gold Coin, Napoleon III (Bare Head)
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange tint due to the 10% copper alloy content used for hardening.
Purity: 21.6K (900 fine gold). This means the coin is composed of 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability, a standard for the Latin Monetary Union.
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900 fine gold). This means the coin is composed of 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability, a standard for the Latin Monetary Union.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange tint due to the 10% copper alloy content used for hardening.
Weight
6.45 grams total weight; contains 0.1867 troy oz of pure gold (5.805 grams of fine gold).
Description
A historic French gold 20 Francs coin featuring the profile of Napoleon III. This coin served as the backbone of European trade during the 19th century and is part of the prestigious Latin Monetary Union heritage. It offers a perfect blend of high gold purity and numismatic history.
Key Features
Bare head portrait of Napoleon III facing right, precise denticles around the rim, and the signature of the engraver 'BARRE' below the bust.
Color & Finish
Classic warm yellow/orange gold with a semi-reflective luster. Visible surface circulation marks and light patina consistent with 19th-century coinage.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse shows 'NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR' and 'BARRE' (the designer). Reverse (implied) would typically show 'EMPIRE FRANCAIS', the denomination '20 FRANCS', the date, and mint marks like the 'A' for Paris or 'BB' for Strasbourg.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 21 mm and thickness of approximately 1.3 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck bullion coin with relief engraving.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; however, the edge of the coin features a reeded (milled) finish or the incuse lettering 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE'.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The rim is raised to protect the design from wear, a classic feature of mid-19th century minting.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using high-pressure steam-powered presses. The detail in the hair follicles and the 'BARRE' signature demonstrates the high artistic standards of the 19th-century Paris Mint.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive high-relief strike, correct font for the period, 90% gold color profile, and visible copper toning. Weight and diameter consistency are primary authenticators.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint) or Strasbourg Mint, France. Designed by Albert-Désiré Barre.
Era & Period
Second French Empire (1852-1870). This 'Bare Head' design was used prior to the 'Laureate Head' design introduced in the 1860s.
Age Estimate
Likely minted between 1852 and 1860 based on the 'Bare Head' portrait of Napoleon III.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic power of the Second French Empire and the attempt to create a unified European currency system long before the Euro.
Condition Notes
Estimated 'Very Fine' to 'Extra Fine' (VF-XF). Surface shows minor light scratches and 'bag marks' from circulation, but the hair detail and facial features remain distinct.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content (melt value) plus a 3-10% collector premium depending on the specific year and mint mark scarcity.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic coins as it destroys collector value. Store in an acid-free plastic flip or capsule to prevent further surface scratches or oils from skin contact.
Similar Items
British Sovereign (higher purity), Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli (similar weight), and the later Napoleon III 'Laureated Head' version.
Interesting Facts
The 20 Francs coin is often referred to as a 'Napoleon'. It was the standard for the Latin Monetary Union, making it interchangeable with Swiss, Belgian, and Italian gold coins of the era.