1986 France 100 Francs Silver-Plated or Low-Purity Commemorative Medal (Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité)
Coin (Commemorative/Medallic Issue) · None visible; item displays a silver-colored metallic finish with potential oxidation and patina consistent with aged silver-plate or cupro-nickel.
Purity: Insignificant or Plated; predominantly silver-toned exterior suggesting silver-plated copper-nickel or silver alloy, not solid gold.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Medallic Issue)
Purity
Insignificant or Plated; predominantly silver-toned exterior suggesting silver-plated copper-nickel or silver alloy, not solid gold.
Gold Type
None visible; item displays a silver-colored metallic finish with potential oxidation and patina consistent with aged silver-plate or cupro-nickel.
Weight
15 to 22 grams depending on base metal composition; standard for 31mm-37mm commemorative French issues of this era.
Description
A striking modernist commemorative piece issued by the French Republic. The obverse features the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' in an architectural, stylized font, topped with a Phrygian cap (Marianne's symbol of liberty). The lower segment clearly displays the 100F denomination and 1986 date, separated by geometric lines.
Key Features
Unique 'stacked' typography of the French motto and the inclusion of the Phrygian cap symbol; secondary signatures of the designers on the right edge.
Color & Finish
Gunmetal silver to dull pewter; features a matte/satin field with high-relief lettering and a distinct dark patina/toning in the recesses.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris mint mark) and 'DURAND - MEGRET' (designer name) visible on the right-hand rim; date 1986 and denomination 100F.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 31mm to 37mm in diameter; standard 'Modules' for 100 Francs commemoratives.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; pure metallic strike with relief typography and symbolic Phrygian cap icon.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; medal/coin form with a smooth or reeded edge.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid circular planchet construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure dies typical of the Monnaie de Paris; features crisp, clean lines and sharp relief despite surface wear.
Authentication Indicators
Monnaie de Paris cornucopia mint mark; correct designer signatures; high-quality strike relief; clear date and denomination fonts consistent with mid-80s French minting.
Origin & Maker
France; Struck by the Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Designed by artists Durand and Mégret.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century); Modernist French design reflecting post-WWII numismatic trends.
Age Estimate
Dated 1986; 38 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic and the 200th-anniversary buildup to the French Revolution (1789-1989).
Condition Notes
Circulated/About Uncirculated. Visible surface dings at 11 o'clock and substantial dark toning/oxidation across the fields. Rim shows minor shelf wear.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD. Value is based on numismatic/collectible interest or silver melt weight if confirmed silver; not a gold bullion item.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with abrasives as it may remove the plating or original mint luster. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1986 100 Francs Piédfort Silver, 1986 100 Francs Gold (rare), and the standard circulating 100 Francs Lafayette issue.
Interesting Facts
While labeled 100 Francs, many of these 1986 issues were designed as non-circulating legal tender or 'Essai' patterns, often struck in silver (.900 or .950) or base metal.