French 100 Francs 'Arbre de la Liberté' (Tree of Liberty) Specimen / Commemorative Token
Coin-like Token / Numismatic Commemorative · None visible. The item exhibits a white/silver metallic luster typical of cupro-nickel or silver, rather than yellow, white, or rose gold.
Purity: Likely Silver-colored Alloy/Base Metal (Non-Gold). Visually inconsistent with standard gold bullion; appears to be a Cupro-Nickel or Silver-plated version of the 100 Francs design.
Type
Coin-like Token / Numismatic Commemorative
Purity
Likely Silver-colored Alloy/Base Metal (Non-Gold). Visually inconsistent with standard gold bullion; appears to be a Cupro-Nickel or Silver-plated version of the 100 Francs design.
Gold Type
None visible. The item exhibits a white/silver metallic luster typical of cupro-nickel or silver, rather than yellow, white, or rose gold.
Weight
Approximately 15 grams (standard for 100 Francs circulating coinage size).
Description
A metallic piece featuring the iconic 'Tree of Liberty' designed by Joaquin Jimenez. The design depicts a stylized tree with roots and a leafy canopy inscribed within a hexagon, symbolizing France. The motto of the French Republic surrounds the upper rim. While the 100 Francs was a legal tender denomination, this specific visual appears to be a base-metal or silver-colored version rather than a gold precious metal strike.
Key Features
Stylized 'Tree of Liberty' inside a hexagon; '100F' denomination; 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' inscription; serrated border design.
Color & Finish
Silver-white metallic hue with a satin to proof-like finish. Visible light scattering on the flat fields suggesting a struck metallic surface with some circulation wear.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No precious metal fineness stamps (like 999 or 18K) are visible on the reverse face. Face features 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' and '100F' denomination.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of approximately 31mm, consistent with the French 100 Francs series.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a solid metallic struck coin/token.
Clasp & Closure
None (Not applicable - Coinage).
Chain & Links
Reeded or smooth edge typical of French modern coinage; no jewelry chain elements present.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial mint strike. Sharp relief on the tree branches and clear, crisp lettering in the legends.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches the 'Arbre de la Liberté' series exactly. However, the color is a major red flag for gold content; genuine French gold coins (like the 20 Francs Napoléon or 100 Francs Bazor) have a distinct rich yellow hue. This item is likely cupro-nickel.
Origin & Maker
France, Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint) design style.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Contemporary Era), reflecting the 1980s-1990s design aesthetic by Joaquin Jimenez.
Age Estimate
Circa 1982-2001 (based on the Arbre de la Liberté design used before the Euro transition).
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic: Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. The tree symbolizes life, growth, and the deep roots of democracy.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine. Minor surface bag marks and light scratching. No significant dings or edge nicks visible.
Value Estimate
Melt value of base metal is negligible (~$0.10). Collector value as a token/coin is likely between $2 - $15 USD depending on composition (Nickel vs Silver). If plated, value remains low.
Care & Maintenance
Handle by the edges to avoid fingerprint oils. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule. Do not clean with abrasives as it will ruin numismatic value.
Similar Items
100 Francs Panthéon (Silver), 100 Francs Marie Curie (Silver), or the 100 Francs Gold Angel (Genie) which is distinctly yellow.
Interesting Facts
The 'Tree of Liberty' design was created for the bicentenary of the French Revolution and later adapted for the 1 and 2 Euro coins currently circulating in France.