1984 France 100 Francs Commemorative Silver Coin (Marie Curie Design)
Coin - Commemorative Silver Numismatic Issue · Silver Alloy (.900 Silver, .100 Copper)
Purity: None - 0% Gold (Composition is .900 Fine Silver)
Type
Coin - Commemorative Silver Numismatic Issue
Purity
None - 0% Gold (Composition is .900 Fine Silver)
Gold Type
Silver Alloy (.900 Silver, .100 Copper)
Weight
15.0 grams (Standard specification for this issue)
Description
A French 100 Francs commemorative silver coin dated 1984. The reverse side features stylized wheat/laurel sprigs with the inscriptions 'PHYSIQUE' and 'CHIMIE' honoring the scientific achievements of Marie Curie, whose portrait appears on the obverse. This piece displays significant environmental toning/oxidation.
Key Features
Marie Curie Nobel Prize commemoration; .900 silver fineness; 100 Francs denomination.
Color & Finish
Silver-white metallic tone with heavy dark grey/black oxidation (toning/patina)
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with '100 FRANCS', 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE', and date '1984'
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, approx 2.1 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge)
Chain & Links
Solid coin strike construction
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality mint strike; detailed lettering and relief consistent with government minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles and strike depth for Monnaie de Paris; .900 silver typically patinas in this dark grey hue when exposed to sulfur.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Fifth Republic)
Age Estimate
Circa 1984 (40 years)
Cultural Significance
Celebrates French scientific excellence and intellectual heritage; part of the transition era before the adoption of the Euro.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF-XF); Note significant dark surface oxidation and minor edge nicks.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver melt value (approx. 0.434 troy oz ASW) plus a small numismatic premium; total market value typically $15–$25 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1982 100 Francs (Pantheon), 1985 100 Francs (Germinal), silver 50 Francs Hercules.
Interesting Facts
Wait for this: Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win them in two different sciences.