France 1933 20 Francs Turin Silver Coin (Non-Gold Identification)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · None; the item is a silver/copper alloy characterized by a white-grey metallic luster
Purity: Non-Gold; French coinage of this era for this denomination was 68% Silver (0.680 fine silver)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
Non-Gold; French coinage of this era for this denomination was 68% Silver (0.680 fine silver)
Gold Type
None; the item is a silver/copper alloy characterized by a white-grey metallic luster
Weight
10.0 grams (Standard specification for the 20 Francs Turin type)
Description
A classic example of French Art Deco numismatics, the 20 Francs Turin type features two ears of wheat flanking the denomination. Despite the user prompt's focus on gold, this specific 1933 20 Francs issue is composed of a silver alloy. It represents the economic shifts of the Third Republic, moving away from high-purity gold and silver toward more industrial alloys for circulation.
Key Features
Prominent Art Deco wheat stalks (épis), Pierre Turin's signature design elements, and the Republican motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' in stylized block lettering
Color & Finish
The coin displays a matte grey patina consistent with aged 68% silver, featuring a standard circulation strike finish with moderate surface oxidation
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint) and Wing (Chief Engraver Lucien Bazor) privy marks adjacent to the date 1933; '20 FRANCS' and 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' inscriptions
Dimensions Estimate
28mm diameter and 2mm thickness (Standard size for the Turin 20 Francs)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; the item is a solid base/precious metal strike
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin); features a reeded (milled) edge
Chain & Links
Not applicable; standard reeded rim construction
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at the Paris Mint; features clean, sharp lettering and deep relief typical of the Monnaie de Paris standards during the early 20th century.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic font style for the era, correct alignment of the '20 FRANCS' text, reeded edge consistent with Paris Mint production, and visible privy marks. Identification as silver rather than gold is a primary authentication note.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint); Designed by Pierre Turin
Era & Period
Interwar Period (Art Deco style, popular in the 1920s-1930s)
Age Estimate
Dated 1933; approximately 91 years old
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the French Third Republic's values and its struggle for economic stability between the World Wars; the 'Turin' head on the obverse (not pictured) is a quintessential representation of Marianne.
Condition Notes
Circulated; Good to Very Good condition. Visible wear on the wheat stalks and high points of the lettering. Surface shows typical handling marks for silver currency of this age.
Value Estimate
Melt value of approximately 0.2186 troy oz silver. Numismatic value typically ranges from $10 to $25 USD depending on specific silver spot prices and local demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or use abrasive chemicals; store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation (tarnish).
Similar Items
1929-1939 10 Francs Turin (smaller silver version); 1940s aluminum-bronze variants; 100 Francs gold Bazor coins of the same era (significantly higher value).
Interesting Facts
The 'Turin' design is one of the most iconic in French history and remained in use for various denominations from 1929 through the 1950s, though the metal composition changed frequently due to war and inflation.