1988 France 100 Francs Fraternity Gold Proof Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Yellow Gold (Standard 22K French Coinage Alloy)
Purity: 22K (920/1000 fineness); Contains 92% pure gold and 8% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
22K (920/1000 fineness); Contains 92% pure gold and 8% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Standard 22K French Coinage Alloy)
Weight
17.00 grams (Gross weight); Contains 0.5028 troy oz of pure gold.
Description
A striking French commemorative gold coin celebrating the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. The reverse depicts the Phrygian cap (symbol of liberty) atop stylized typography, with the denomination and date centered below a horizontal baseline.
Key Features
Modernist font style for the French motto; iconic Phrygian cap emblem; high-relief proof strike with frosted details.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow gold with proof finish characteristics; shows significant dark peripheral toning/patina and surface oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '100F' (Denomination), '1988' (Date), 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ', and a Phrygian cap symbol.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, approximately 2 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; purely metallic numismatic strike.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded (milled) edge for security and grip; standard coin finishing.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; coin features a flat field and raised relief artistic elements.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality proof minting with contrasting mirrored fields and frosted relief; precision machine-struck by the Monnaie de Paris.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the '100F' strike, distinctive French mint typography, and specific 31mm diameter ratio. Toning patterns are consistent with authentic 22K alloy.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Contemporary (1980s Modern Commemorative French Republic).
Age Estimate
Issued in 1988; exactly 36 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic; the Phrygian cap was a symbol worn by liberated slaves in Rome and later became a symbol of French revolutionary freedom.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent numismatically, though showing significant 'copper spots' or dark toning typical of 22K gold stored in non-airtight environments. No major dings or scratches.
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by melt value (~$1,250 - $1,350 based on gold spot prices) plus a small numismatic premium for the Proof strike.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation of the copper alloy.
Similar Items
Silver 100 Francs version (physically similar but different metal); American Gold Eagle (same 22K purity but higher weight/size).
Interesting Facts
This coin was part of a series celebrating the French Revolution and the subsequent development of the Republic's social ideals.