1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette Commemorative Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Yellow Gold (High purity alloy with copper and silver signature)
Purity: 920/1000 Fineness (22K Gold equivalent). Contains 92% pure gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
920/1000 Fineness (22K Gold equivalent). Contains 92% pure gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High purity alloy with copper and silver signature)
Weight
17.00 grams total weight (Actual Gold Weight: 0.5032 troy oz)
Description
A prestigious French commemorative gold coin celebrating the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution and Marquis de La Fayette. The reverse features the French national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' topped with a Phrygian cap.
Key Features
Stylized 'tree' typography of the national motto; Phrygian cap icon; dual date 1987; Durand-Megret artist signature.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow gold with a proof-like finish; features matte frosted relief against mirrored fields.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Monnaie de Paris) and 'DURAND-MEGRET' designer mark on the reverse edge.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter; standard 2mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None (Full metal strike).
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) for security and authenticity.
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid coin planchet)
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck on a high-pressure press; excellent detail in the stylized lettering and symbolic Phrygian cap.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of 'DURAND-MEGRET' stamp; specific 100F denomination typography; weight-to-diameter ratio consistent with Monnaie de Paris 17g standards.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by Durand-Megret.
Era & Period
Modern Era (1987) / Neoclassical Revival design elements.
Age Estimate
37 years (Dated 1987).
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical alliance between France and the United States and the shared values of the Enlightenment.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (VF/EF). Visible handling marks and light surface hairlines typical of unencapsulated gold.
Value Estimate
Value is primarily gold melt (Spot x 0.5032) plus a 5-10% numismatic premium depending on spot market conditions.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges; store in a non-PVC airtight capsule; do not dip in chemical cleaners which strip original luster.
Similar Items
1986 Statue of Liberty 100 Francs Gold; 1989 French Revolution Bicentennial 100 Francs.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs gold series was often issued to commemorate heroes of Liberty; La Fayette is famously known as the 'Hero of the Two Worlds'.