French 20 Francs Louis Philippe I Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold with high copper content characteristic of 19th-century French coinage.
Purity: 21.6K (0.900 Fineness). Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (0.900 Fineness). Contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with high copper content characteristic of 19th-century French coinage.
Weight
6.45 grams gross weight; 0.1867 troy oz pure gold content.
Description
A historical French 20 Francs gold coin representing the July Monarchy. The obverse depicts King Louis Philippe I facing right. This specific example shows heavy circulation and significant surface toning, giving it a dark, non-reflective appearance often seen on coins stored in environments with high sulfur or moisture.
Key Features
Portrait of Louis Philippe I; 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS' legend reflecting his status as King of the People rather than King of France.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow naturally toned with a dark greyish-brown patina. Circulated finish with significant surface oxidation/toning.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse features 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I' and 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS'. Reverse (implied) would typically feature the denomination (20 FRANCS), year, and mint marks (e.g., 'A' for Paris).
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter; 1.3 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard numismatic strike.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. Reeded edge typically present for security against clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Edge is reeded.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck coinage with high-relief engraved portrait. Features a reeded edge to prevent precious metal shaving.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic typography of French minting; correct proportions of the Domard profile. Heavy patina suggests long-term storage but hides metal luster, requiring XRF or weight testing to confirm core metal.
Origin & Maker
France. Struck at French royal mints (Paris, Rouen, Lille, etc.). Engraved by Joseph-François Domard.
Era & Period
Restoration/July Monarchy Era (1830-1848). Features the laureate or bare head of the 'Citizen King'.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1830 and 1848 based on the Louis Philippe I portrait.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gold Standard' era in Europe and the specific French 20 Franc unit that eventually formed the basis of the Latin Monetary Union.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair (G-VG). Surface is heavily darkened/toned. Significant wear on high points of hair and facial features. Potential surface corrosion or heavy environmental grime.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on gold melt value (approx. $400-$450 based on spot) with a 5-10% numismatic premium if cleaned properly by a professional, though currently valued near melt due to condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; numismatic value is destroyed by abrasive cleaning. Store in a PVC-free archival flip or capsule.
Similar Items
Napoleon III 20 Francs, Swiss 20 Franc Vreneli, Rooster 20 Francs. Distinct by the specific monarch's portrait.
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was the last King of France, reigning during a period of industrialization and rising bourgeoisie power until the Revolution of 1848.