1899 French 10 Francs Gold Coin (Cérès Type)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Latin Monetary Union standard alloy of 90% gold and 10% copper for durability).
Purity: 90% Gold (21.6 Karat / .900 Fineness). It contains 0.0933 troy ounces of pure gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
90% Gold (21.6 Karat / .900 Fineness). It contains 0.0933 troy ounces of pure gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Latin Monetary Union standard alloy of 90% gold and 10% copper for durability).
Weight
3.2258 grams (Standard official weight).
Description
An authentic 1899 French 10 Francs gold coin featuring the head of Ceres on the obverse and a floral wreath surrounding the denomination on the reverse. This coin was a staple of European trade during the Latin Monetary Union era, representing the prosperity of the late 19th-century French Republic.
Key Features
Denominated '10 FRANCS', dated 1899, wreath motif on reverse, reeded edge, and 90% gold composition.
Color & Finish
Classic pale yellow gold with a matte-to-lustrous finish; displays moderate circulation wear and a natural aged patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'A' (Paris Mint) usually present; reverse stamped 'RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE', '10 FRANCS', and the date '1899'.
Dimensions Estimate
19 mm diameter with a thickness of approximately 0.9 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Features traditional numismatic relief engraving.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security against clipping/filing of the precious metal.
Chain & Links
Solid strike construction with a thin planchet and reeded edge typical of late 19th-century French coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at high pressure with fine detail in the wreath and lettering, characteristic of the mechanical minting processes of the Paris Mint in the late 1800s.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (3.23g), diameter (19mm), and specific 'Cérès' design details are consistent with Paris Mint production. No signs of casting bubbles or modern plating.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France.
Era & Period
Belle Époque / Late Victorian Era (1899). Features the 'Cérès' design indicative of the Third French Republic.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1899; approximately 125 years old.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the Latin Monetary Union (LMU), which was an early attempt to unify European currencies through standardized gold and silver weight specifications.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Surfaces show clear signs of circulation, light scratches, and softened details on the high points of the wreath.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold melt content (Approx. $220-$240 based on spot) plus a 5-15% numismatic premium depending on grade.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival capsule to prevent scratching.
Similar Items
20 Francs Gold Rooster, Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli, or the Italian 10 Lire Gold coin which shared identical technical specifications.
Interesting Facts
The 10 Francs coin is often called the 'Napoleon' regardless of the ruler depicted, though this specific Cérès design followed the fall of the Second Empire.