French 100 Francs Panthéon Commemorative Coin (Likely Silver-Clad or Base Metal Circulation Issue)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Not applicable; visual indicates a white-metal alloy (nickel or silver). No yellow, rose, or green gold characteristics are present in the provided image.
Purity: Non-gold/Base Metal. Although appearing in a gold-focused query, this specific visual represents the French 100 Francs 'Panthéon' series, typically minted in silver (.900) or base metal. It contains 0% gold content unless it is a rare, aftermarket gold-plated novelty.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-gold/Base Metal. Although appearing in a gold-focused query, this specific visual represents the French 100 Francs 'Panthéon' series, typically minted in silver (.900) or base metal. It contains 0% gold content unless it is a rare, aftermarket gold-plated novelty.
Gold Type
Not applicable; visual indicates a white-metal alloy (nickel or silver). No yellow, rose, or green gold characteristics are present in the provided image.
Weight
15 grams (Standard for the 100 Francs silver/base metal series). Not applicable to gold weight standards.
Description
A classic specimen of French numismatic history, this 100 Francs coin depicts the Panthéon in Paris. The design captures the Neoclassical architecture of the monument with 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' arched above. While often mistaken for gold in low-light photos, this is a silver or nickel-based currency unit reflecting the artistic heritage of French engraving.
Key Features
Architectural depiction of the Panthéon; Joaquin Jimenez signature (usually visible near the base); large 100 Francs denomination on the reverse side.
Color & Finish
Cool grey/silver tone with a satin to circulated finish. Features a matte field with some high-point wear on the Panthéon building architectural details.
Hallmarks & Stamps
REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE inscription on obverse; 100 FRANCS and date (likely 1982-1986 range) on reverse. No gold hallmarks (like the Eagle head) are present.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, 2.3 mm thickness (Standard 100 Francs specifications).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal coin with no stones or decorative inlays.
Clasp & Closure
None. The coin features a smooth or reeded edge (depending on specific year) characteristic of French decimal coinage.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; this is a solid physical coin with a circular rim and no link construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial die-struck production. High-relief engraving for the building facade, demonstrating the Paris Mint's precision in architectural numismatics.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches the 1982-1986 issue exactly. The color is inconsistent with 10K-24K gold; it lacks a gold-specific luster or 'density' in color saturation.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Marked with the cornucopia mint mark.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Contemporary Era), specifically the 1980s. Designed by Joaquin Jimenez.
Age Estimate
Produced between 1982 and 1986. Approximately 40 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of French currency toward more artistic commemorative types in high denominations before the adoption of the Euro in 2002.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Good (VG). Visible surface scratches, minor edge nicks, and softening of the architectural columns on the building.
Value Estimate
Collector value: $10 - $25 USD. Melt value: ~$12 USD if silver (.900 purity), or face value if the nickel-clad version. High gold spot prices do not apply to this item.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule. Do not clean with abrasives or silver dip, as this destroys the numismatic 'bloom' and value.
Similar Items
100 Francs 'Clemenceau' or 'Malraux' issues. Often confused with the gold 100 Francs Napoleon coins, which are significantly smaller and have high gold purity.
Interesting Facts
The Panthéon building was originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve but now functions as a mausoleum for distinguished French citizens like Voltaire and Victor Hugo.