1986 France 100 Francs 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' Silver Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Circulating Commemorative) · None (Silver alloy - 900/1000 Silver)
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is .900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). It does not contain gold despite the request for gold analysis.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulating Commemorative)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is .900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). It does not contain gold despite the request for gold analysis.
Gold Type
None (Silver alloy - 900/1000 Silver)
Weight
15 grams (standard for this issue)
Description
A stylish French 100 Francs coin featuring a modern, graphic representation of the French national motto 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' topped by a Phrygian cap (Marianne's cap). The layout is geometric and Brutalist-inspired, characteristic of late 20th-century French numismatic design.
Key Features
Bold stylized typography; Phrygian cap icon; Durand-Mégret signature along the right-hand rim; high-relief lettering.
Color & Finish
Silver-white with a matte-to-satin luster. Exhibits light surface scratches and minor rim nicks consistent with handling.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Monnaie de Paris) and the 'Dolphin' engraver's mark (Emile Rousseau) are visible flanking the year 1986.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled)
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid coin)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck at the Pessac facility of the Monnaie de Paris. High-quality die preparation resulting in sharp, architectural lines in the typography.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font spacing for Monnaie de Paris; precise 'Durand-Mégret' signature; presence of the cornucopia and dolphin privy marks; characteristic '100F' strike depth.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France; Designer: Durand-Mégret (signed right rim)
Era & Period
Modern (Fifth Republic, France)
Age Estimate
Dated 1986 (38 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic. These coins were often saved as 'henry' silver or gifted as lucky pieces in France.
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated (AU) to Brilliant Uncirculated (BU). Some visible light friction on the high points of the letters and minor bag marks.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver bullion value plus a small numismatic premium. Melt value is approximately 0.434 troy oz of silver. Current market retail: $15 - $22 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free air-tight capsule. Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Handle only by the edges.
Similar Items
100 Francs 'Panthéon' (1982-1985), 100 Francs 'Lafayette', or the 100 Francs 'Marie Curie' issues.
Interesting Facts
This design was part of a series intended to modernize the image of French currency before the transition to the Euro. The Phrygian cap is a symbol of liberty and the French Revolution.