French 20 Francs Louis Philippe I (Bare Head) Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century French alloy with a slightly warm, reddish-yellow hue due to copper content).
Purity: 22K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coin is composed of 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability. It is solid gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
22K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coin is composed of 90% pure gold and 10% copper for durability. It is solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century French alloy with a slightly warm, reddish-yellow hue due to copper content).
Weight
6.45 grams (Total weight); 5.806 grams (0.1867 troy oz) of pure gold content.
Description
This 20 Francs gold coin represents the reign of Louis Philippe I, the 'Citizen King.' The obverse depicts his bare head facing right, captured in a neoclassical style typical of mid-19th-century French coinage. It is a historic weight (6.45g) that became the standard for the Latin Monetary Union. Despite the heavy surface toning shown in the image, the underlying detail of the hair curls remains visible.
Key Features
Bare head portrait; specific 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS' title; Domard signature; 21mm diameter standard; historically accurate circulation wear.
Color & Finish
The coin exhibits a subdued, aged gold color with a significant greyish-brown patina or 'environmental toning'. The surface is matte rather than reflective, showing significant circulation wear and fine scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The obverse features the inscription 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS' (King of the French). The engraver's name 'DOMARD. F.' is visible at the base of the neck. Purity is implied by the denomination and era (90% gold).
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter; 1.3 mm thickness (Standard 20 Franc specification).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a sovereign-struck metallic currency item.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The edge is likely lettered or reeded (usually 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE' on these issues).
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin has a reeded or inscribed edge consistent with 19th-century French minting standards to prevent 'clipping'.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck from steel dies on a screw press or early steam press. Shows high-relief detail in the curls of the hair and sharp lettering, indicative of the Monnaie de Paris's superior 19th-century technical standards.
Authentication Indicators
Lettering style and spacing; portrait morphology; specific age-appropriate wear; engraving signature location; lack of 'bubble' casting marks. Real examples are non-magnetic. Note: Heavy toning can sometimes hide base-metal core indicators.
Origin & Maker
France; issued by the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris) or provincial mints specified by a mint mark on the reverse (not visible). Engraved by Joseph-François Domard.
Era & Period
Monarchy of July (1830-1848). This specific 'Bare Head' (Tête Nue) design was struck primarily between 1830 and 1841 before the laureate head design was introduced.
Age Estimate
Produced circa 1830-1841. This item is approximately 183-194 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from the 'King of France' (absolute monarchy) to 'King of the French' (constitutional monarchy), reflecting the political upheaval of the 1830 Revolution.
Condition Notes
Grade: Fine (F) to Very Fine (VF) details, but significantly darkened by heavy surface toning/dirt. There are numerous visible micro-scratches and contact marks. The surfaces appear handled or possibly buried/long-stored without protection.
Value Estimate
Melt value (~$450-$500 USD based on $2400 spot) + a numismatic premium of 10-20% depending on the specific year/mint mark on the reverse. Total estimate: $525-$600 USD.
Care & Maintenance
DO NOT CLEAN. Collectors value the original patina; chemical dipping or harsh polishing will significantly reduce numismatic value and destroy the surface luster. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule.
Similar Items
Great Britain Sovereign (7.98g, 22K); Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli (6.45g); French 20 Francs Napoleon III. This item is smaller than the Sovereign but identical in gold weight to the Vreneli.
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was the last King to rule France. His 20 Franc coins were international trade staples and the predecessor to the famous Napoleon III and 'Rooster' gold coins.