20 Francs Gold Coin, French 'Marianne-Rooster' (Ceres/Marianne Type)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic French alloy with slight reddish/orange tint from copper content).
Purity: 21.6K (900 Fineness), contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900 Fineness), contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic French alloy with slight reddish/orange tint from copper content).
Weight
6.45 grams gross weight; 5.81 grams (0.1867 troy oz) net gold content. The scale shows 6.47g, which is within the acceptable tolerance for a circulated original.
Description
A classic piece of European monetary history, this 20 Francs gold coin features the iconic profile of Marianne, the personification of the French Republic. Often referred to as a 'Napoleon' in the trade, these coins were the backbone of the Latin Monetary Union and remain one of the most liquid gold bullion coins in Europe.
Key Features
Obverse profile of Marianne with oak leaf wreath; reverse features the 'Gallic Rooster' (Le Coq Gaulois) and the motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'.
Color & Finish
Warm yellow with a natural orange-gold patina. Luster is semi-reflective/circulated (VF/XF), showing typical toning for early 20th-century French gold.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No hallmarks required as it is legal tender. Features 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' on the obverse and likely '20 FRANCS' with the date on the reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 21mm, Thickness: 1.25mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None (standard struck coinage).
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; features a reeded (lettered/textured) edge for security.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; reeded edge prevents 'shaving' of gold from the coin circumference.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using high-pressure steel dies; features excellent detail in the hair of Marianne and the feathers of the Rooster on the reverse side.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (6.45-6.47g range is correct), 21mm diameter, specific orange-yellow hue of 90% French gold, and high-relief striking of the portrait.
Origin & Maker
France, struck by the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
French Third Republic (Late 19th to Early 20th Century).
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1898 and 1914 (Original or Restrike).
Cultural Significance
Represents the secular values of the French Revolution; Marianne is a symbol of liberty and reason against the monarchy.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine (XF). Minor surface abrasions (bag marks) visible; scale reading of 6.47g suggests minimal wear and an authentic mass.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by the spot price of 0.1867 oz of gold plus a 3% to 10% premium. Market value typically ranges between $420 - $480 USD depending on the gold market.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent scratches.
Similar Items
Swiss 20 Francs (Vreneli), Italian 20 Lire, Belgian 20 Francs, and the British Sovereign (though the Sovereign is heavier at 7.98g).
Interesting Facts
Millions of these were 're-struck' by the French government in the 1950s using the original 1907-1914 dies to replenish gold reserves, making them very common in excellent condition.