1986 France 100 Francs 'Liberté Egalité Fraternité' Silver Piedfort Issue
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Piedfort) · Not applicable/Silver. Characteristic white-metallic luster with visible rainbow toning/patina.
Purity: 0% (This is a Silver Coin). Specifically .900 Fineness Silver (90% pure silver, 10% copper). Note: While requested as a gold item analysis, this specific 1986 100 Francs issue is struck in silver.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Piedfort)
Purity
0% (This is a Silver Coin). Specifically .900 Fineness Silver (90% pure silver, 10% copper). Note: While requested as a gold item analysis, this specific 1986 100 Francs issue is struck in silver.
Gold Type
Not applicable/Silver. Characteristic white-metallic luster with visible rainbow toning/patina.
Weight
30.00 grams (Piedfort double-thickness version weight). The standard issue is 15 grams.
Description
A striking example of French numismatic art, this 100 Francs coin commemorates the Republic's motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. The design features stylized, interlocking typography topped with a Phrygian cap (Liberty cap). The sharp, geometric horizontal lines provide a modern, architectural feel to the currency. This specific example shows beautiful 'cabinet friction' toning along the top edge.
Key Features
Phrygian cap icon, stylized modern typography, Piedfort thickness, and the French National Motto. Features the cornucopia mint mark.
Color & Finish
Metallic grey/silver with pronounced peripheral rainbow toning (pinks, blues, and golds) indicating long-term storage in a paper or velvet environment. Satin/matte field finish with relief lettering.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris mint mark) and Dolphin (Emile Rousseau, Engraver General) flanking the date 1986. 'DURAND-MEGRET' designer mark on the right perimeter.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 31mm; Thickness: approx 4mm (Piedfort specification).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Relief-struck metal design.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) with vertical grooves commonly used to prevent shaving of precious metal.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular coin planchet with raised protective rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck at the Paris Mint. Features high-relief modern block lettering and a sharp reeded edge. The depth of the '100F' shows excellent die pressure.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styling for 1986 issues, crisp strike on the '100F' denomination, presence of the correct Monnaie de Paris mint marks (cornucopia/dolphin). Light oxidation consistent with genuine silver.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Designed by Durand-Mégret.
Era & Period
Modern (Fifth Republic of France). Struck during the late 20th century.
Age Estimate
Dated 1986 (38 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic established during the French Revolution. The Phrygian cap is a symbol of freedom and the pursuit of liberty.
Condition Notes
Grade: AU (About Uncirculated) / MS-62. Visible surface bag marks and light scratches in the open fields. Beautiful peripheral toning. No signs of cleaning.
Value Estimate
Collector value between $45.00 - $80.00 USD depending on the current silver spot price and the premium for the Piedfort striking. Primarily numismatic value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; the toning adds value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation. Handle only by the edges.
Similar Items
1986 100 Francs Standard Silver (15g), 1986 100 Francs Gold Proof (stamped 920 or 999 gold), 1985 Panthéon 100 Francs.
Interesting Facts
The 'Piedfort' version is struck on a blank twice as thick as a standard coin. Historically, these were 'prestige' pieces given to dignitaries or collectors by the mint.