20 Francs Turin Silver Coin (French Second Republic Style)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · Non-gold; Silver Alloy (likely .680 fineness). It mimics the appearance of gold only through photographic reflection.
Purity: 0% (This is a Silver item). These coins were minted in .680 silver, not gold. The yellowish tint in the photo appears to be a result of artificial lighting or toning/oxidation.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
0% (This is a Silver item). These coins were minted in .680 silver, not gold. The yellowish tint in the photo appears to be a result of artificial lighting or toning/oxidation.
Gold Type
Non-gold; Silver Alloy (likely .680 fineness). It mimics the appearance of gold only through photographic reflection.
Weight
10.0 grams per coin
Description
These are French 20 Francs silver coins designed by Pierre Turin. The obverse features a laureated head of the Republic facing right, while the reverse depicts two ears of wheat flanking the denomination. While they appear gold-toned in this specific photograph, the Turin 20 Francs was never a regular gold issue.
Key Features
Art Deco design style by Pierre Turin; reeded edge; prominent wheat stalk motifs on reverse.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with a dull matte finish; showing signs of environmental toning and pocket wear that creates a yellowish reflection in low light.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraver's name 'P.TURIN' visible below the bust; '20 FRANCS' and 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' inscriptions; 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' on obverse.
Dimensions Estimate
28 mm diameter; 2 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge; standard coin finishing
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular planchet construction
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; balanced proportions typical of early 20th-century French industrial minting.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches the known Pierre Turin 20 Francs silver striking. The metallic luster suggests silver rather than gold when viewed against the textile background.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France
Era & Period
Modern French Republic (Turin Type Design)
Age Estimate
Circa 1929–1939 (The dates on these specific 20 Franc silver coins)
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the French Third Republic's monetary system during the interwar period.
Condition Notes
Circulated (Very Good 20 - Fine 12). Visible surface dings, heavy wear on the high points of the wheat stalks, and significant environmental toning.
Value Estimate
Relatively low ($8 - $12 USD per coin). Value is based on silver melt content (approx. 6.8g pure silver) plus a small numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
10 Francs Turin Silver (smaller), 20 Francs Cérès Gold (actual gold coin of same denomination), 20 Francs Napoleon Gold.
Interesting Facts
The 'Turin Type' remained a staple of French coinage for decades and is considered a masterpiece of Art Deco numismatic design.