French Gold 20 Francs Napoleon III Bare Head Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold with a classic warm reddish-copper hue characteristic of French 19th-century coinage
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness), consisting of 90.0% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness), consisting of 90.0% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a classic warm reddish-copper hue characteristic of French 19th-century coinage
Weight
6.45 grams gross weight, containing approximately 5.80 grams (0.1867 troy oz) of fine gold
Description
A classic specimen of French monetary history, this 20 Francs gold coin features the right-facing portrait of Napoleon III. Known as the 'Bare Head' type, it preceded the 'Laureate Head' design. These coins were the workhorse of European trade during the Latin Monetary Union, representing stability and French imperial power.
Key Features
Bare head portrait of Napoleon III (no laurel wreath), signature of engraver 'BARRE' below the bust, and high-relief striking typical of mid-19th century French minting
Color & Finish
Deep golden yellow with a naturally lustrous surface; exhibits circulation strike finish with moderate patina and surface wear consistent with age
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse shows 'NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR'; Reverse (not fully visible but implied) would feature 'EMPIRE FRANCAIS', denomination '20 FR', date, and mint marks such as the 'A' for Paris or 'BB' for Strasbourg
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approx. 21 mm and thickness of approx. 1.3 mm (standard specification)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard die-struck numismatic design
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and aesthetic finish
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid metal planchet construction with reeded edges to prevent metal shaving/clipping
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using heavy steam-powered presses; features high-quality relief and professional engraving by Désiré-Albert Barre
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive profile of Napoleon III, characteristic 900 fine gold color, precise lettering, and standard 21mm diameter. Red flag: Image blurriness prevents verification of fine die details or weight check.
Origin & Maker
France; minted by the Monnaie de Paris or provincial branch mints
Era & Period
Second French Empire (specifically the 'Bare Head' period 1852-1860)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1852 and 1860; approximately 164-172 years old
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French economic dominance in the 19th century and the basis for the Latin Monetary Union, which attempted to harmonize European currencies similar to the modern Euro.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; visible wear on the high points of the hair and facial features. Surface shows minor contact marks. Estimated grade: Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF) range.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content (melt value) plus a numismatic premium of 5-15% depending on the specific year and mint mark scarcity
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic coins as it destroys collector value; store in PVC-free flips or capsules; handle only by the edges
Similar Items
20 Francs Ceres, 20 Francs Genius, Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli (similar weight/purity but different origin)
Interesting Facts
The 20 Francs Napoleon is the namesake for all coins referred to as 'Napoleons' in the gold market, even those featuring different rulers or the 'Marianne' Rooster.