1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette Silver Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · None. This is Silver. The tarnishing/patina visible in the image shows a typical iridescent/brownish silver toning rather than gold luster.
Purity: 0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of .900 Fine Silver (90% Pure Silver). Information provided for correction purposes as the user identified it as gold, but visually and historically it is silver bullion.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
0% (Not Gold). This item is composed of .900 Fine Silver (90% Pure Silver). Information provided for correction purposes as the user identified it as gold, but visually and historically it is silver bullion.
Gold Type
None. This is Silver. The tarnishing/patina visible in the image shows a typical iridescent/brownish silver toning rather than gold luster.
Weight
15 grams (0.4340 oz ASW - Actual Silver Weight).
Description
A French 100 Francs commemorative coin celebrating the bicentennial of the arrival of Marquis de La Fayette in the United States. The reverse side (shown) features the French national motto in a unique, modern geometric font over a stylized Phrygian cap and the date 1987.
Key Features
Stylized Art Deco-influenced typography; Phrygian cap motif; 100 Francs denomination; Marquis de La Fayette commemoration.
Color & Finish
Metallic grey with significant surface oxidation/toning. Features a proof-like or uncirculated mint finish with some surface scuffing and a brownish patina typical of stored silver.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '100 F' (Face Value), '1987' (Date), and the motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'. No gold hallmarks exist as it is silver.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 31 mm, Thickness of 2.1 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal coin.
Clasp & Closure
None. Features a reeded edge for security and grip.
Chain & Links
N/A. Single solid coin struck from a planchet.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck at high pressure. Excellent clarity in the fine lines of the Phrygian cap and the geometric dividers near the date.
Authentication Indicators
Die-consistent lettering; standard 1987 Paris Mint design; silver-specific oxidation patterns. Note: This is an authentic silver coin, often mistaken for gold in poor lighting due to the brown patina.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic France (Contemporary/Late 20th Century). Highly stylized modern typography.
Age Estimate
Dated 1987 (37 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the long-standing historical alliance between France and the United States, utilizing the revolutionary motto 'Liberty, Equality, Fraternity'.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Extremely Fine (XF). Visible surface scratches and significant environmental toning/tarnishing across the field; no major rim dings.
Value Estimate
Current market value is approximately $15 - $22 USD based on silver spot price and a small numismatic premium. Melt value is roughly $13 USD (variable).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in an airtight PVC-free capsule to prevent further tarnishing.
Similar Items
100 Francs Panthéon (1982), 100 Francs Marie Curie (1984), and 100 Francs Jean Monnet (1988).
Interesting Facts
Though it has a face value of 100 Francs, it was primarily minted for collectors and as a bullion play during the 1980s. Marquis de La Fayette is a hero of both the French and American Revolutions.