1988 France 100 Francs 'Fraternité' Silver Coin (Possible Plated or Imitation)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · White-tone metal; likely Silver or Base Metal. No characteristics of yellow, rose, or white gold alloys are present.
Purity: Non-gold; standard issue is .900 silver. Visible surface degradation suggests it is not solid gold despite the request context.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-gold; standard issue is .900 silver. Visible surface degradation suggests it is not solid gold despite the request context.
Gold Type
White-tone metal; likely Silver or Base Metal. No characteristics of yellow, rose, or white gold alloys are present.
Weight
Standard 15.0 grams for genuine silver issue; weight should be verified to rule out lead-core counterfeits.
Description
A French 100 Francs commemorative coin featuring the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. The design is modernistic, utilizing sharp typography and stylized symbols including a Phrygian cap.
Key Features
Stylized 'Fraternité' text, Phrygian cap icon, vertical tricolor representation in the 'Y' and base lines.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with significant dark oxidation and spotting (toning). Matte background with frosted relief indicators.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint) and Dolphin (Engraver Rousseau) mint marks; '100 F' denomination; date '1988'.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter; 2.1 mm thickness (standard specifications for this French series).
Gemstones & Inlays
None; strictly a struck metal numismatic item.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge standard for currency/commemoratives.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; reeded coin edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; relief shows standard French Mint precision; edge is reeded.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of mint marks (Cornucopia/Dolphin); correct typography spacing. Note: If this is being sold as 'gold', it is a red flag as this design was not a standard gold issue.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by artist Durando.
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century); specifically celebrating the Bicentennial of the French Revolution.
Age Estimate
Minted 1988; approximately 36 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic and the 200th anniversary of the French Revolution (1789-1989).
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine; showing heavy surface spotting, oxidation, and possible environmental damage. Significant toning reduces eye appeal.
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value of silver (~$12-$15 USD) if genuine silver; higher value only if in pristine PF/MS-70 condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1989 100 Francs (Declaration of Human Rights); 100 Francs Pantheon; Gold 100 Francs Angel (very different design).
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs series was often used for artistic commemoratives before the adoption of the Euro in 2002.