1987 French 100 Francs La Fayette Commemorative
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · None (This is a Silver Commemorative Coin)
Purity: Non-gold (90% Silver/900 Fine Silver)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-gold (90% Silver/900 Fine Silver)
Gold Type
None (This is a Silver Commemorative Coin)
Weight
15 grams
Description
A commemorative 100 Francs silver coin celebrating the 200th anniversary of La Fayette. The obverse features the Phrygian cap and the French national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' in a stylized geometric script.
Key Features
Stylized 'Modernist' typography; Phrygian cap symbol; 100F denomination; La Fayette commemoration series
Color & Finish
Metallic grey/silver with heavy dark grey and brown surface toning/patina; Proof-like fields with frosted relief
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Monnaie de Paris) and Dolphin privy mark (Emile Rousseau); 'DURAND-MEGRET' designer mark
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, 2.2 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid coin struck from blanks)
Craftsmanship Details
High-relief striking characteristic of the Paris Mint; precise lettering and distinct frosted finish against mirrored fields (Proof-like)
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styling for 1980s Monnaie de Paris issues; official mint and privy marks present; Durand-Megret signature visible vertically
Origin & Maker
France, Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (1987 Production)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1987
Cultural Significance
Celebrates Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, a key figure in both the American and French Revolutions, symbolizing Franco-American friendship.
Condition Notes
Very Fine to Extremely Fine; significant surface oxidation (toning) across the obverse field; minor rim nicks; no evidence of cleaning
Value Estimate
$15 - $25 (Primarily based on silver melt value of ~13.5g of pure silver plus a small numismatic premium)
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free archival capsule; do not clean or polish to preserve the numismatic value of the patina; avoid high humidity.
Similar Items
1986 100 Francs Statue of Liberty; 1984 100 Francs Marie Curie; 1987 Gold La Fayette 100 Francs (AU 920)
Interesting Facts
While this item is silver, not gold, it was part of a prestigious series of French commemoratives that were also sometimes issued in gold (Or) versions with 17g weight and 920 purity.