French 100 Francs ‘Genie de la Liberté’ Gold Coin / French Republic Medalet
Coin / Numismatic Medal · White Gold or Silver-toned finish; lacks the characteristic yellow hue of .900 French gold coinage. This appears to be a 'White' metallic alloy.
Purity: Likely silver or white gold-plated base; diagnostic features suggest this is a modern replica or a silver-toned commemorative medal rather than a standard 19th-century gold 100 Francs.
Type
Coin / Numismatic Medal
Purity
Likely silver or white gold-plated base; diagnostic features suggest this is a modern replica or a silver-toned commemorative medal rather than a standard 19th-century gold 100 Francs.
Gold Type
White Gold or Silver-toned finish; lacks the characteristic yellow hue of .900 French gold coinage. This appears to be a 'White' metallic alloy.
Weight
Estimated 15-31 grams depending on diameter (standard 100 Francs is 32.25g; medals vary).
Description
An elegant commemorative piece featuring the profile of the Republic with a crown of cherubs/genii, inspired by the historical designs of the Barre dynasty. The piece showcases a sharp strike with a modern, high-luster white metallic finish.
Key Features
Profile of Marianne/Republic; 'D'AP BARRE' signature; rayed background behind the head; modern high-relief strike.
Color & Finish
High-polish white metallic finish with proof-like or satin fields. The color is distinctly silvery-white rather than golden.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Signed 'D'AP. BARRE' (After Barre) at the base of the neck. Legend 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'.
Dimensions Estimate
Likely 31mm to 35mm in diameter if modeled after the Large Gold 100 Francs.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; struck metal design.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or smooth edge; standard coin perimeter.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid disc construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck with modern minting equipment. High level of detail in the hair and rays; consistent with mass-produced quality collectibles.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: Appearance is silver/white rather than the deep yellow of .900 gold. The signature 'D'AP' (meaning 'after') indicates it is a later interpretation of Barre’s work, common in modern medals.
Origin & Maker
France; design after Jean-Jacques Barre (General Engraver of the Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Modern reproduction / Contemporary strike (Post-1970) inspired by 19th-century French numismatic designs.
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (Circa 1970-present).
Cultural Significance
Represents the French Republic and the ideals of Liberty; Marianne is the national personification of France.
Condition Notes
Excellent / Mint Condition. High luster, minimal surface bag marks, sharp edges, and clean fields.
Value Estimate
If silver-plated: $5-$20; if .925 silver: $30-$50; if white gold: Weight x Purity. Based on visual cues, this is likely a commemorative medal with modest premium over metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid touching with bare fingers (oils cause toning); store in a PVC-free capsule; do not polish to maintain numismatic value.
Similar Items
1878-1914 Lucky Angel 100 Francs Gold Coin; modern French silver commemorative medals.
Interesting Facts
The 'Genie' or 'Angel' design is one of the most famous in French numismatics, originally created during the French Revolution and revived for 100 Franc gold coins in the late 1800s.