1988 French 100 Francs Fraternity 'Pantheon' Silver Coin (Non-Gold Identification)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Circulation) · None (Solid Silver Alloy). The item displays a silver-grey metallic color consistent with seasoned silver coinage.
Purity: 0% Gold Content. This is a 900/1000 Fine Silver coin. While silver and gold coins are both precious metals, this specific item contains no gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Circulation)
Purity
0% Gold Content. This is a 900/1000 Fine Silver coin. While silver and gold coins are both precious metals, this specific item contains no gold.
Gold Type
None (Solid Silver Alloy). The item displays a silver-grey metallic color consistent with seasoned silver coinage.
Weight
15.00 grams (Standard official weight for this issue)
Description
This is a 1988 French 100 Francs silver coin. The reverse (shown) features the inscription 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' in a modernist, vertical typographic style above the face value. Designed by artist Emile Rousseau, it represents a contemporary take on French republican values.
Key Features
Stylized Art Deco-influenced typography, heavy reeded edge, and the specific '100F' denomination which was unusual for circulating coinage at the time.
Color & Finish
Dull silver-grey with significant surface oxidation and dark toning. The finish is a matte/satin strike typical of 1980s French circulation commemorative coins.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '100F' (Denomination), '19 88' (Year), and the French national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'. Includes small cornucopia and dolphin mint marks.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter, 2.3 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security and tactile identification
Chain & Links
N/A - Circular coin edge
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck at the Paris Mint. Features high-relief modern block lettering and precise vertical alignment in the year design.
Authentication Indicators
The typography and mint marks (cornucopia for Paris) are consistent with genuine Monnaie de Paris output. The weight-to-diameter ratio is typical for 90% silver.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Modern Era)
Age Estimate
36 years (Produced in 1988)
Cultural Significance
Celebrates the founding principles of the French Republic: Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, which have been the official motto of France since the late 19th century.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (Circulated). The coin shows heavy toning (patina), surface grime, and numerous minor abrasions. No signs of major structural damage like bending.
Value Estimate
Primarily Melt Value plus a small numismatic premium. Approximately US$12-$18 based on silver spot price and condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with harsh abrasives. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation. If handling, hold by the edges to avoid finger oils.
Similar Items
1982 100 Francs Pantheon, 1984 100 Francs Marie Curie. Often confused with silver medals, but distinguished by the 'F' currency symbol.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs silver coins of the 1980s were part of a French tradition of issuing precious metal coins for general circulation, though many were hoarded by the public due to their silver content.