1988 French 100 Francs Brotherhood (Fraternité) Silver Coin (NOT GOLD)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Not applicable; this is silver. The metallic composition is 90% silver and 10% copper.
Purity: 0% (None). This item is composed of .900 (90%) fine silver, not gold. It is a common misconception based on the '100F' denomination which existed in gold historically, but the 1988 edition is silver.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
0% (None). This item is composed of .900 (90%) fine silver, not gold. It is a common misconception based on the '100F' denomination which existed in gold historically, but the 1988 edition is silver.
Gold Type
Not applicable; this is silver. The metallic composition is 90% silver and 10% copper.
Weight
15.00 grams (Total weight), containing approximately 0.434 troy ounces of pure silver.
Description
A French 100 Francs commemorative coin celebrating the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. The reverse features stylized, geometric typography arranged in a tree-like form topped with a Phrygian cap (Liberty cap). It represents modern French numismatic art from the late 1980s.
Key Features
Stylized 'Fraternité' tree design, Phrygian cap iconography, and the specific 1988 mintage date.
Color & Finish
Monochromatic silver grey with significant dark tarnish/patina. The finish is originally a semi-brilliant circulation strike, now showing organic surface oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '100F', '1988', 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'. Visible Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and 'DURAND - MEGAET' artist signature on the right edge.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter; approximately 2.1 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely struck into the metal planchet.
Clasp & Closure
None. The coin has a smooth edge with no mounting hardware visible.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge of the coin is smooth (plain), typical of this French commemorative series.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck planchet with high-relief stylized lettering. Precise die work typical of the Paris Mint's modern technical standards.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles for the 1988 Monnaie de Paris issues, presence of the 'DURAND-MEGAET' signature, and the official Cornucopia mint mark.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by artists Durand and Megaet.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). Issued during the Fifth French Republic.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1988; approximately 36 years old.
Cultural Significance
The Phrygian cap and the motto represent the core values of the French Revolution and the enduring identity of the French Republic.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine. The surface shows heavy tarnish (toning) and some minor rim contact marks. The details remain sharp despite the oxidation.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver melt value ($12-$15 USD) plus a small numismatic premium for a total of $18-$25 USD depending on buyer interest.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1986 100 Francs (Statue of Liberty), 1989 100 Francs (Declaration of Rights), and the 19th-century gold 100 Francs 'Génie' which is significantly more valuable.
Interesting Facts
While 100 Franc coins were historically minted in 90% gold during the 19th and early 20th centuries, this 1988 version was part of a silver commemorative series that circulated alongside paper currency.