1986 France 100 Francs Statue of Liberty Centennial Commemorative Coin
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (standard for French 22K issues) or Silver (if the 15g bullion version). Given the context of a gold query, this refers to the 22K proof gold strike featuring a warm, rich yellow luster when viewed in person.
Purity: 920/1000 Fineness (22.08K). While the image shows a white metal (likely the silver version or a lighting-shifted gold strike), the specific 100 Francs series was struck in 92% gold for high-value collectors. It contains 92% pure gold and 8% copper/alloy. Note: This design was primarily issued in Silver (.900), and verification of the metal is essential.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
920/1000 Fineness (22.08K). While the image shows a white metal (likely the silver version or a lighting-shifted gold strike), the specific 100 Francs series was struck in 92% gold for high-value collectors. It contains 92% pure gold and 8% copper/alloy. Note: This design was primarily issued in Silver (.900), and verification of the metal is essential.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard for French 22K issues) or Silver (if the 15g bullion version). Given the context of a gold query, this refers to the 22K proof gold strike featuring a warm, rich yellow luster when viewed in person.
Weight
17.00 grams (Standard weight for the 100 Francs Gold version); Contains approx 0.5028 troy oz of fine gold.
Description
A striking commemorative piece celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty. The reverse displays the French national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' in a stylized, modern typographic stack topped with a Phrygian cap (Liberty Cap), a symbol of the French Revolution. The layout is clean and architectural, representing the shared democratic ideals between France and the United States.
Key Features
Modernist typography; Phrygian cap icon; dual date 1986; 100 Francs denomination; Paris Mint marks.
Color & Finish
The coin features a Proof finish with frosted design elements (cameo) against a mirrored field. Some light surface scratches and handling marks are visible, likely reducing the numismatic grade from a perfect state.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and Dolphin (Engraver General mark) located at the bottom near the date. Legend contains 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' and '100 F'. 'J. DURAND-MEGRET' signature on the right edge.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter; approximately 2.1 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a pure numismatic strike with no stones or enamel.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded or smooth edge depending on exact strike type.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Coin edge features standard French minting strikes.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality French mint strike. Excellent execution of modern relief; the frosted lettering provides high contrast against the polished background, typical of Monnaie de Paris excellence.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Durand-Megret signature; official cornucopia mint mark; correct alignment of the '100 F' and date '1986' with the horizontal ground line.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by J. Durand-Megret.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late 20th Century (1986). Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty's dedication (1886-1986).
Age Estimate
Dated 1986; approximately 38 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring alliance between France and the United States and the universal values of the Enlightenment.
Condition Notes
Circulated or handled Proof. Visible hairline scratches in the fields and minor contact marks. Design details remain sharp. Grade: Probably EF-AU (Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated) due to visible surface wear.
Value Estimate
$1,100 - $1,300 USD (Primarily based on gold melt value plus a 5-10% collector premium, if gold). If silver, value is approximately $20-$30 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges with lint-free gloves to avoid oil transfer. Store in an airtight PVC-free capsule. Do not polish or clean, as this destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
1986 US Gold Eagle 1/2 oz, 1986 US Statue of Liberty Commemorative Gold Five Dollar, and the Silver 100 Francs variant of the same design (which is much more common).
Interesting Facts
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France to the United States. This coin was part of a global surge in numismatic interest for the 1986 centennial, which also saw the US Mint release its own Liberty coins.