French 20 Francs Gold Coin, Napoleon III (Laureate Head)
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold (warm historical alloy containing copper)
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coin contains 90% pure gold, with the remaining 10% being copper for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coin contains 90% pure gold, with the remaining 10% being copper for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (warm historical alloy containing copper)
Weight
6.45 grams (Total Weight); 5.81 grams (Net Gold Content) / approx. 0.1867 troy oz AGW
Description
An iconic piece of European monetary history, this 20 Franc gold coin features the Laureate head of Napoleon III. Unlike the earlier 'Bare Head' versions, this 'Tête Laurée' design signifies the peak of his power. The obverse depicts the Emperor facing right, crowned with a laurel wreath. It is a dual-purpose item, valued both by bullion investors for its gold content and by numismatists for its historical 19th-century French provenance.
Key Features
Laurel wreath crown on Napoleon's head; 'BARRE' engraver mark; specific 90% gold alloy color; reeded edge.
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with characteristic orange-red copper toning in the recessed details. Satin to semi-reflective luster typical of a circulated specimen.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscriptions: 'NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR' on obverse; engraver 'BARRE' below neck; 'EMPIRE FRANÇAIS' and denomination on reverse (not fully visible)
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 21.0 mm; Thickness of 1.3 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None (Solid Die-Struck Gold Coin)
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) for counterfeit prevention and to prevent 'clipping' of the gold.
Chain & Links
N/A (Solid coin; reeded edge profile)
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at a high-pressure minting facility. The engraving by Désiré-Albert Barre shows exceptional detail in the hair and laurel leaves, characteristic of mid-19th century French precision.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth on lettering; distinct 'BARRE' signature; standard French 900 fine gold color profile; diameter-to-thickness ratio appears correct.
Origin & Maker
French Mint (Monnaie de Paris); mint marks typically 'A' (Paris) or 'BB' (Strasbourg)
Era & Period
Second French Empire (specifically 1861-1870 for the 'Laureate Head' style)
Age Estimate
Approximately 155-165 years old (Dated between 1861 and 1870)
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the Second French Empire and the modernization of Paris. These coins were globally recognized trade currency in the mid-to-late 1800s.
Condition Notes
Very Good to fine. Visible wear on the high points of the laurel wreath and beard. Minor surface bag marks, but consistent with a 'circulated' grade (approx. VF-25 to XF-40).
Value Estimate
Market value is heavily tied to the spot price of gold (~5.8g pure gold) plus a numismatic premium of 5-15% depending on the specific date and mint mark.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Use a non-PVC flip or archival capsule for storage. Handle only by the edges to prevent palm oils from affecting the patina.
Similar Items
20 Francs 'Ceres' type, 20 Francs 'Lucky Angel' (Genie), or Swiss 20 Francs 'Vreneli'.
Interesting Facts
The 20 Francs gold coin is often called a 'Napoleon'. It was the standard gold coin for the Latin Monetary Union, which was a 19th-century attempt to unify European currencies.