1886 French 10 Francs Gold Coin (Cérès or Angel)
Gold Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic French Mint Alloy with 10% Copper)
Purity: 21.6K (900 Fineness/90% Gold)
Type
Gold Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900 Fineness/90% Gold)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic French Mint Alloy with 10% Copper)
Weight
3.2258 grams (approx. 0.0933 troy oz AGW)
Description
A historic French 10 Francs gold coin representing the financial height of the Latin Monetary Union. This piece features the face value prominently on the reverse within a wreath or iconic Republic imagery (Angel or Ceres), struck in durable 90% gold. It served as a staple of European commerce and remains a favorite for fractional gold investors today.
Key Features
Small fractional size, historic date of 1886, high relief striking typical of 19th-century French tech.
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with a hint of warm orange copper-base patina; original mint luster for the period.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Struck with '10 FRANCS', date '1886', and 'RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'. May feature the 'A' mint mark for Paris.
Dimensions Estimate
19 mm diameter; approx. 1 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; purely struck metal bullion.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge standard for French circulation gold.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid struck coin.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by high-pressure steam or hydraulic presses; precise engraving by leading French medalists of the era.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (3.23g), diameter (19mm), and specific 'grainy' luster of 90% gold; reeded edge profile and crisp lettering contrast.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Third French Republic (1870–1940); late 19th-century classicism.
Age Estimate
Dated 1886; late Victorian era equivalent.
Cultural Significance
Represents the stability of the Gold Standard in 19th-century Europe and the secular values of the French Republic.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine (VF/XF); minor surface contact marks consistent with limited circulation/storage; details remain sharp.
Value Estimate
Value based on gold spot price (~$200-$250 melt) plus a 10-20% numismatic premium depending on grade.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in an acid-free PVC-free capsule or flip.
Similar Items
20 Francs Gold Napoléon/Marianne Rooster, Swiss 10 Francs Vreneli (1911-1922), Italian 10 Lire Gold.
Interesting Facts
The 10 Francs gold coin is known as a 'Demi-Napoléon' among French collectors and was a pillar of the Latin Monetary Union.