1984 France 100 Francs Commemorative Silver Coin (Marie Curie)
Coin (Numismatic, Commemorative) · Not Applicable (Silver Coin). The surface shows dark oxidation/toning which can sometimes appear as 'antique gold' or 'bronze' in low light.
Purity: None (0% Gold). This is a .900 silver coin, meaning it contains 90% silver and 10% copper. It is frequently mistaken for gold by novices when viewing toned or poorly lit examples, but the 1984 100 Francs with this design was only struck in silver, piéfort silver, and gold. This specific item is the 15g silver circulation-grade version.
Type
Coin (Numismatic, Commemorative)
Purity
None (0% Gold). This is a .900 silver coin, meaning it contains 90% silver and 10% copper. It is frequently mistaken for gold by novices when viewing toned or poorly lit examples, but the 1984 100 Francs with this design was only struck in silver, piéfort silver, and gold. This specific item is the 15g silver circulation-grade version.
Gold Type
Not Applicable (Silver Coin). The surface shows dark oxidation/toning which can sometimes appear as 'antique gold' or 'bronze' in low light.
Weight
15.00 grams (Net Fine Silver Content: 13.5g / 0.434 oz)
Description
This is a 100 Francs silver coin issued by the French Republic in 1984 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Marie Curie. The reverse shown displays the denomination 100 Francs surrounded by the national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' and laurel/wheat branches representing her contributions to Physics and Chemistry.
Key Features
Commemorative design for Marie Curie; 'Physique' and 'Chimie' inscribed near the wreath; Cornucopia mint mark.
Color & Finish
Metallic silver with heavy dark-brown to black peripheral toning (tarnish). The finish was originally specimen-like/uncirculated but now shows environmental oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text: 'RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE', '100 FRANCS', '1984'. Mint marks: Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris) and Dolphin (Emile Rousseau, General Engraver).
Dimensions Estimate
31.0 mm Diameter; 2.2 mm Thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design features a wreath of wheat and laurel branches, and the names 'PHYSIQUE' and 'CHIMIE'.
Clasp & Closure
Not Applicable; Reeded Edge.
Chain & Links
Reeded edge (vertical grooves) typical of French legal tender of the 20th century.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by the Monnaie de Paris. High-relief lettering and crisp reeded edges characteristic of state-sponsored minting.
Authentication Indicators
The typography and mint marks are consistent with Monnaie de Paris standards for 1984. The metal behaves as silver (indicated by the specific pattern of dark tarnish). Red Flag: If this were gold, it would be much heavier and have different markings (e.g., a '900' or 'OR' stamp).
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Modern (1984); Late 20th Century French Numismatics.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1984 (Approx. 40 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the French heritage of scientific achievement and the use of the 100 Francs denomination for prestigious commemorations before the Euro adoption.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Fine (Circulated). The coin shows significant surface oxidation (tarnishing) and minor rim nicks. The strike remains clear but the luster is muted.
Value Estimate
$12.00 - $18.00 USD. The value is primarily based on the silver melt price (approx. 0.43 troy oz of silver) with a small premium for its commemorative nature.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or chemicals, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1982 100 Francs (Pantheon), 1985 100 Francs (Zola). There is a gold version of this coin, but it is 17g/22K gold and would be significantly yellower and brighter.
Interesting Facts
Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win them in two different scientific fields.