1986 France 100 Francs Panthéon Silver Coin (Identified Appearance)
Coin - Commemorative Silver Bullion (Note: Visual shows silver luster, not gold) · None (White metal appearance); likely 900/1000 Silver alloyed with copper.
Purity: Non-gold; 90% Silver (.900 Fineness). If it were the gold version, it would be 92% (22K) or 99.9% (24K) depending on the specific strike, but this visual corresponds to the 15g Silver issue.
Type
Coin - Commemorative Silver Bullion (Note: Visual shows silver luster, not gold)
Purity
Non-gold; 90% Silver (.900 Fineness). If it were the gold version, it would be 92% (22K) or 99.9% (24K) depending on the specific strike, but this visual corresponds to the 15g Silver issue.
Gold Type
None (White metal appearance); likely 900/1000 Silver alloyed with copper.
Weight
15 grams (Standard weight for the 100 Francs silver commemorative series).
Description
A 1986 100 Francs commemorative coin featuring the French national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' in a unique stylized Gothic-modernist hybrid font. Above the text is a Phrygian cap (Símbolo de la Libertad). The design by Durand-Megret is celebrated for its architectural geometry and bold use of negative space.
Key Features
Stylized three-line typography of the national motto; prominent '100F' denomination; Phrygian cap motif; specific 1986 dating.
Color & Finish
Silver-white luster with proof-like or uncirculated finish. Shows significant surface toning and oxidation (patina) turning dark/greyish in the lower fields.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and Dolphin (Engraver Rousseau mark) flanking the date 1986; '100F' denomination; 'DURAND-MEGRET' designer mark on the right edge.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter; 2.1 mm thickness (standard specification for this series).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design features a Phrygian cap and stylized typography of the French motto.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and grip.
Chain & Links
N/A (Numismatic item); straight reeded edge profile.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck at the Paris Mint using high-pressure dies. Features sharp, deep-seated relief for the typography and distinct recessed horizontal separator lines.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font weights; presence of the cornucopia and dolphin mint/privy marks; sharp reeding on the edges; accurate alignment of the recessed date lines.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Contemporary (1980s French Numismatic Period).
Age Estimate
Dated 1986 (38 years old as of 2024).
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic. The Phrygian cap (bonnet rouge) is a symbol of freedom and liberty dating back to Roman times but popularized during the French Revolution.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF-XF). Surface shows significant handling scratches and uneven toning/tarnish, particularly in the lower hemisphere below the date.
Value Estimate
Primarily silver melt value plus a small collector premium. Silver value (~$12-$15) + $5-$10 premium. If this were gold, value would exceed $1,200.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation. Do not clean or polish chemically, as this removes the numismatic surface and lowers value.
Similar Items
1986 100 Francs Gold Piedfort (much thicker); 1986 100 Francs Gold (17g); Silver 10 Francs coins of the same era.
Interesting Facts
This coin was issued to celebrate the bicentenary of the Phrygian cap as a symbol of the French Revolution. While this image shows the silver version, gold versions of this specific design were struck in very limited quantities for collectors.