1988 France 100 Francs 'Panthéon' Commemorative Silver Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Not applicable (Silver Item). Naturally white metal with dark oxidation (toning).
Purity: 0% (This is a Silver Coin). Composed of .900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
0% (This is a Silver Coin). Composed of .900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper).
Gold Type
Not applicable (Silver Item). Naturally white metal with dark oxidation (toning).
Weight
15.00 grams (Standard specification for this issue). Contains 0.434 troy oz of pure silver.
Description
A striking silver 100 Francs coin issued by the French Republic to commemorate the fraternity and liberty of the state. The reverse features the legendary motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' stylized as a tree of life topped with a Phrygian cap. The design is modernist and geometric, reflecting late 20th-century French numismatic art.
Key Features
Distinctive 'Liberty Tree' typography; 100 Francs denomination; 1988 date; Phrygian cap icon at the apex.
Color & Finish
Originally brilliant white silver; currently exhibits heavy dark/black peripheral toning (patina) which is common for stored silver. Highly reflective fields with matte devices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Face value '100F', date '1988', Designer 'DURAND-MEGRET', Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris mint mark), and Dolphin (Engraver General mark).
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 31.0 mm; Thickness: 2.1 mm (Standard 100 Francs size).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Pure metal striking with numismatic design elements.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Coin has a plain edge or reeded edge (variant dependent).
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The structural integrity is a solid struck planchet.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by the Monnaie de Paris. High-relief lettering and sharp die cutting characteristic of modern French minting excellence.
Authentication Indicators
Weight and diameter consistency; standard 'Durand-Megret' signature; characteristic French mint marks (Cornucopia and Dolphin).
Origin & Maker
France; Struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Modern French Fifth Republic (Late 20th Century). Stylized contemporary Art Deco-inspired typography.
Age Estimate
Dated 1988; currently 36 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic established during the Revolution; the Phrygian cap is a symbol of freedom.
Condition Notes
Circulated/About Uncirculated. Significant surface oxidation/tanning across the fields. No major rim dings visible, but the luster is obscured by tarnish.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver melt value (approx. $10-$15 USD) plus a small numismatic premium; total market value approx. $18-$25 USD depending on buyer interest in toning.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it removes numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1982 100 Francs Pantheon; 10 Francs 'Hercule' Silver coins; 50 Francs Hercules Silver (larger at 30g).
Interesting Facts
This specific design is part of a series that transitioned France from traditional coinage toward the modern aesthetic seen before the adoption of the Euro in 2002.