1988 French 100 Francs 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' Gold Coin
Coin (Bullion/Commemorative) · Yellow Gold. The visible hue is a rich yellow with slight warmth characteristic of French 22K minting.
Purity: 22 Karat (920/1000 Fineness). Contains 92% pure gold with an 8% copper alloy for durability.
Type
Coin (Bullion/Commemorative)
Purity
22 Karat (920/1000 Fineness). Contains 92% pure gold with an 8% copper alloy for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The visible hue is a rich yellow with slight warmth characteristic of French 22K minting.
Weight
17.00 grams (Gross weight), containing approximately 0.5028 troy ounces of pure gold.
Description
A stunning commemorative gold coin featuring the iconic French national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) arranged in a stylized, modern typographic tree-like motif. This piece represents French republican values and was issued as part of a series celebrating the heritage of France. Its heavy weight and high purity make it a favorite for both European bullion investors and numismatists.
Key Features
Distinctive modernist typography, stylized Phrygian cap at the top, and the '100F' denomination split by vertical lines echoing columns of antiquity.
Color & Finish
Lustrous warm yellow with a proof-like or uncirculated finish. The fields show a mirror-like quality while the raised lettering has a subtle frosted contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date '1988', denomination '100 F', 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' on reverse. Mint marks (Cornucopia for Monnaie de Paris) and Engraver's mark (Dolphin for Emile Rousseau or specific engraver name visible on rim).
Dimensions Estimate
31.00 mm in diameter, 1.80 mm to 2.00 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a solid precious metal bullion coin.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Plain/Reeded Edge). The edge features distinct mint-pressed vertical reeding for security against shaving.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Standard circular coin form with a flat profile and raised protective rims.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck with high-pressure dies at the Monnaie de Paris. The detail in the lettering is exceptionally crisp, showing the precision of late 20th-century French industrial minting.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the '1988' lettering, the presence of the Monnaie de Paris cornucopia mint mark, specific weight of 17g, and the characteristic 22K color which resists the oxidation seen in base metals.
Origin & Maker
France. Minted by the Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint), one of the oldest and most prestigious minting institutions in the world.
Era & Period
Modern Contemporary (Late 20th Century). Minted during the era of the French Fifth Republic.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1988; currently 36 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Revolution. The Phrygian cap (bonnet rouge) at the top is a symbol of freedom and the pursuit of liberty in Western culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Visible surface toning and light fingerprint oils (patina). Minimal 'bag marks' or scratches. Protective rim remains sharp. Overall Numismatic Grade: AU-UNC (About Uncirculated).
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by the current gold spot price for 0.5028 oz of gold, plus a numismatic premium of 5-15% depending on buyer demand. Estimated value: $1,250 - $1,450 USD based on market conditions.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule. Handle only by the edges to prevent skin oils from causing spots.
Similar Items
French 20 Francs Napoleon (much smaller), Swiss 20 Vreneli (similar purity), 1989 French 100 Francs (Bicentennial of the Revolution edition).
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs gold coins were often issued in limited mintages compared to the 20 Francs Napoléons, making specific years like 1988 highly collectible. This design was part of a broader effort to modernize French currency aesthetics before the transition to the Euro.