1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette Gold Coin
Gold Coin (Commemorative Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic Mint Lustre)
Purity: 22K (92.0% Gold, 8.0% Copper/Silver)
Type
Gold Coin (Commemorative Bullion)
Purity
22K (92.0% Gold, 8.0% Copper/Silver)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic Mint Lustre)
Weight
17.00 grams (0.5024 troy oz AGW)
Description
A stunning commemorative gold coin honoring the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the Marquis de La Fayette in the United States and the French Constitution. The reverse displays the iconic French motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' in a modernist geometric font set against a stippled field, surmounted by the Phrygian cap. This piece represents a bridge between French numismatic history and the era of modern bullion investing.
Key Features
Stylized Art Deco-influenced typography; Phrygian cap motif; 100 Francs denomination specific to the 1980s gold commemorative series.
Color & Finish
Rich yellow with proof-like or uncirculated mint lustre; features a matte textured background with raised high-relief lettering. Some surface toning visible.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and a dolphin (Engraver Rousseau mark) usually located on the edge or fields; '100F' denomination and '1987' date stamped.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, 1.8 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features numismatic relief engravings including the Phrygian cap and national motto.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security and weight verification.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid reeded edge typical of late 20th-century French coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck by the Monnaie de Paris; features a 'sable' (sand) finish in the recessed areas to provide a high-contrast visual effect against the polished planes.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the '100F' block text; consistency of the Paris Mint matte finish; reeded edge uniformity; specific 1987 date alignment.
Origin & Maker
France, Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century French Republic)
Age Estimate
Dated 1987; 37 years old as of current assessment.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic and the historical military alliance between France and the United States during the American Revolution.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (Uncirculated); shows light surface micro-scratches and slight iridescent toning, but retains sharp edges and clear inscriptions.
Value Estimate
Estimated at gold spot price for 17g (22K) plus a 5-10% collector premium; approximately $1,250 - $1,400 depending on current market spot.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with abrasives; preserve in a PVC-free plastic capsule to prevent toning; handle only by the edges to avoid transferring finger oils to the fields.
Similar Items
1989 French 100 Francs (Eiffel Tower Gold), US Gold Eagle 1/2 oz, or the French 20 Francs 'Napoleon' gold coins.
Interesting Facts
The Marquis de La Fayette is one of only eight people to be granted honorary US citizenship; this coin is part of a series that marked France's transition into the modern European economic era.