French 20 Francs Gold Coin - Louis XVIII (Bust by Michaut)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange hue due to the historical copper alloy.
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness). Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness). Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange hue due to the historical copper alloy.
Weight
6.45 grams total (approx. 5.81 grams pure gold / 0.1867 troy oz AGW).
Description
A beautiful example of French numismatic history, this 20 Francs gold coin features the right-facing profile of Louis XVIII. Known as a 'Louis d'Or' in common parlance, this piece represents the post-Napoleonic restoration of the Bourbon monarchy. The obverse displays the King with a high forehead and tied hair, while the reverse typically features the Bourbon shield under a crown within a laurel wreath.
Key Features
Michaut bust design, 'Roi de France' title, horse head privy mark, and distinct reeded edge.
Color & Finish
Classic warm 19th-century yellow gold with a semi-glossy luster and original surface patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend: 'LOUIS XVIII ROI DE FRANCE'. Engraver signature 'MICHAUT F.' below bust. Horse head mint mark visible at the bottom.
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter, approx. 1.3 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard numismatic strike.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) to prevent shaving gold from the circumference.
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid numismatic coin).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-struck production using heavy screw presses characteristic of early 19th-century French minting.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic font spacing, correct profile rendering for Michaut’s design, and authentic die-strike luster. Weight and diameter consistency are the primary authenticators.
Origin & Maker
French Mint (Monnaie de Paris). Engraved by Pierre-Joseph Tiolier or Auguste-François Michaut.
Era & Period
Restoration Period (Louis XVIII reign, 1814-1824).
Age Estimate
Produced between 1814 and 1824.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the Bourbon Restoration and the stabilization of the French monetary system via the 'Franc Germinal' standard.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF-XF). Visible surface scratches and minor rim dings are present, consistent with historical circulation. The hallmark clarity for the engraver's name is still legible.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on gold spot price plus a numismatic premium of 5-15% depending on the specific year and mint markrarity.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it ruins numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip.
Similar Items
Napoleon I 20 Francs, Charles X 20 Francs, and late-issue Ceres or Napoleon III gold coins.
Interesting Facts
Louis XVIII was the brother of the executed Louis XVI; his coinage marked a return to royalist iconography after the Napoleonic wars.