France 1988 100 Francs 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' Proof Gold Coin
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · Yellow Gold. The coin displays the traditional warm, rich yellow luster characteristic of French 22K coinage alloys.
Purity: 22K (920/1000 fineness). This means the item contains 92% pure gold, with the remaining 8% typically being copper and silver for durability.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
22K (920/1000 fineness). This means the item contains 92% pure gold, with the remaining 8% typically being copper and silver for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold. The coin displays the traditional warm, rich yellow luster characteristic of French 22K coinage alloys.
Weight
17.00 grams (approximately 0.503 troy ounces of pure gold content). The total coin weight is standardized for this Monnaie de Paris issue.
Description
An exquisite example of late-20th-century French numismatic art, this 100 Francs gold coin commemorates the national motto: 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. The obverse features the motto arranged in the shape of a tree, crowned by a Phrygian cap (Semen de la Liberté). It is a highly sought-after piece for collectors of modern European gold, combining national heritage with high precious metal purity.
Key Features
The 'Tree of Liberty' typographic design, the 1988 mintage date, and the specific Monnaie de Paris 'Cornucopia' mint mark. The use of 22K gold rather than 24K provides better resistance to surface scratches.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow with a proof-like finish. The fields (background) exhibit a mirror-like reflective surface, while the relief (raised lettering and tree) features a frosted, matte texture for contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the cornucopia (mint mark of Monnaie de Paris) and the 'Dauphin' (mark of the Chief Engraver Emile Rousseau) flanking the date '1988'. The text '100F' indicates the denomination.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter and approximately 2 mm in thickness. This is the standard size for the 100 Francs gold series of that era.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin relies on intricate metal engraving and the contrast between polished and frosted surfaces.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; however, the edge is typically smooth or features a security edge common to French commemorative issues.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; the coin features a standard circular rim with a raised protective border to prevent wear on the central design.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck at the Paris Mint. The typography is exceptionally sharp, and the alignment of the vertical lines (the tree trunk) with the denomination '100F' shows high geometric precision.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the 'DURAND-MEGRET' maker signature, the presence of official French mint marks, and the specific weight/diameter ratio. No 'casting bubbles' or blurry lettering, which are red flags for counterfeits.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). The design is credited to Durand-Megret, as indicated by the micro-inscription on the right side.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). Specifically, the design reflects the modern French Republic's artistic style of the 1980s.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1988 (approximately 36 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic and the historical evolution of the Franc before the adoption of the Euro. It serves as a symbol of French national identity and economic stability.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. There are minor surface hairlines and slight signs of handling visible in the fields, but the frosted relief remains crisp. No significant dings or edge knocks are present.
Value Estimate
Varies with gold spot price (Melt value approx. $1,100 - $1,250) + a 10-15% numismatic premium depending on the current market and rarity of the 1988 strike.
Care & Maintenance
Should be kept in a PVC-free plastic capsule. Do not polish or clean with abrasives, as this destroys the numismatic 'proof' premium. Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves.
Similar Items
Other 100 Francs gold commemoratives (such as the Panthéon or Lafayette versions), or the standard 20 Francs Gold Rooster/Marianne (which is much smaller at 6.45g).
Interesting Facts
The 'Tree of Liberty' motif dates back to the French Revolution of 1789. While 100 Francs was the face value, these coins were minted primarily as non-circulating bullion for investors and collectors.