1992 France 500 Francs Gold Alberto-ville Winter Olympics 'Downhill' Commemorative Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Typical French Yellow Gold - a rich, traditional yellow hue standard for high-purity commemorative coinage.
Purity: 920/1000 (22.08K). Contains 92% pure gold, often referred to as crown gold equivalent, balanced with silver and copper alloys.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
920/1000 (22.08K). Contains 92% pure gold, often referred to as crown gold equivalent, balanced with silver and copper alloys.
Gold Type
Typical French Yellow Gold - a rich, traditional yellow hue standard for high-purity commemorative coinage.
Weight
17.00 grams (Gross weight); Contains approximately 0.503 troy ounces of pure gold.
Description
An exquisite example of French numismatic art, this 500 Francs gold coin commemorates the 1992 Albertville Winter Olympics. The obverse features a dynamic depiction of a downhill skier in deep tuck position with a stylized background figure, capturing the speed and precision of winter sports. The high-contrast proof finish accentuates the fine muscular details and technical gear of the competitors.
Key Features
Joaquin Jimenez signature; highly stylized modern French design; 500 Francs face value; low mintage typical for Olympic gold commemoratives.
Color & Finish
Proof finish featuring frosted cameo relief against a deep mirror-polished field. Rich yellow luster showing high reflective quality.
Hallmarks & Stamps
REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE inscription; J. JIMENEZ (Engraver's signature); Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris mint mark); Dolphin (Graveur Général mark).
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter; standard thickness for the 500 Francs commemorative series.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Pure metallic commemorative coin format.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) for security and anti-clipping protection. Housed in a clear protective acrylic capsule.
Chain & Links
Standard vertical reeded edge consistent with Monnaie de Paris high-value coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck 'Proof' quality. Features exceptionally sharp relief and flawless surface finishing characteristic of the Monnaie de Paris.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of letters; presence of the 'Cornucopia' mint mark; distinct J. Jimenez signature; 920 gold color consistency; mirror/frosted contrast levels.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by artist Joaquin Jimenez.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). Specifically commissioned for the XVI Olympic Winter Games in Albertville, France (1992).
Age Estimate
Circa 1989-1992 (Official issue year 1992). Manufactured using modern high-pressure proof dies.
Cultural Significance
Celebrates France's heritage as an Olympic host and its significant contribution to alpine skiing culture and mountain sports.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in PF/PR 67-69 condition. Mirror fields are clean, frosty devices are well-defined. Visible only through the capsule which may have minor surface scuffs.
Value Estimate
Valued at current gold melt (~$1,000 - $1,200) plus a 10-20% numismatic premium depending on original box and certificate presence.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in the original airtight capsule. Do not handle with bare hands as skin oils can cause spots. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
1992 Albertville Silver 100 Francs (same design, different metal); 1992 1/4 oz Gold American Eagle; 1992 Canadian Gold Maple Leaf.
Interesting Facts
The Albertville 1992 series was one of the last major gold commemorative series for France before the transition to the Euro in 2002.