French 100 Francs Gold Coin, Engel (Angel/Genius) or Ceres Design, 19th Century Style
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Alloyed with Copper for durability), typically 21.6K. Note: Visual specimen appears silver-toned or heavily tarnished, which is abnormal for high-purity gold.
Purity: 90.0% Pure Gold (900/1000 Fineness). While the image shows a silver/pallid tone suggesting a possible counterfeit or a silver variant (such as a 5 Franc silver coin), if genuine gold, it contains 10% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
90.0% Pure Gold (900/1000 Fineness). While the image shows a silver/pallid tone suggesting a possible counterfeit or a silver variant (such as a 5 Franc silver coin), if genuine gold, it contains 10% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed with Copper for durability), typically 21.6K. Note: Visual specimen appears silver-toned or heavily tarnished, which is abnormal for high-purity gold.
Weight
32.25 grams (Total weight for a 100 Francs gold coin). The actual gold content (AGW) would be approximately 0.9335 troy oz.
Description
A classic piece of French numismatic history featuring the head of Ceres or a similar female personification of the Republic. The obverse depicts the profile of the Republic with a crowned wreath and sun rays, symbolizing the enlightenment of the French state. The design is based on the works of the famed engraver Albert Désiré Barre.
Key Features
Obverse profile with elaborate laurel and grape wreath; 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' lettering; star or sunburst motif in the background; 'D'AP. BARRE' signature at the base.
Color & Finish
The specimen shows a dull, brownish-grey patina and a silvery metallic base, which is inconsistent with historical French gold coinage. Authentic pieces have a rich, warm yellow luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE inscription on obverse; 'D'AP. BARRE' signature (after Albert Désiré Barre). Reverse would typically show the denomination and date.
Dimensions Estimate
35 mm in diameter for the 100 Francs denomination. Thickness is approximately 2.3 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal coin with no decorative inlays or stones.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; however, the reeded edge serves as a security feature to prevent metal clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge of an authentic coin is reeded (milled) or features incuse lettering such as 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE'.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using heavy industrial presses. Characterized by high-relief details in the hair and precise lettering. The 'D'AP. BARRE' indicates the engraver's pedigree.
Authentication Indicators
Red Flag: The color is distinctly non-gold (appears silver/grey). Authentic 900 gold does not tarnish to this degree of black/grey. Recommendation: Test with XRF or specific gravity as this may be a silver 5 Francs coin or a base-metal replica.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Identifiable by the 'A' mint mark (if present on reverse).
Era & Period
Modern Era (19th Century Design); Specifically Third Republic (1870-1940). This design evokes the 1870s-1880s periods.
Age Estimate
Circa 1878-1914 based on the Barre design, though this specific object may be a contemporary replica or a silver 5 Francs equivalent.
Cultural Significance
Represents the stability of the Latin Monetary Union and the artistic height of the French Third Republic's 'Belle Époque'.
Condition Notes
Poor to Fair. The surface is heavily contaminated with dark oxidation or residue. Significant wear on the high points of the hair and lettering. Possible environmental damage or indicative of a non-gold base metal.
Value Estimate
If genuine gold: approx. $2,100 - $2,300 (based on spot price + premium). If silver 5 Francs: $25 - $40. If a base-metal replica: Negligible value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives. Place in a PVC-free plastic capsule. Given the discoloration, professional conservation is only recommended if numismatic value exceeds melt.
Similar Items
5 Francs Silver (same design, silver), 20 Francs 'Marianne-Rooster' Gold (smaller, extremely common), 50 Francs Gold (Barre design).
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs gold coin was a 'prestige' piece, rarely used in daily commerce and often used for international settlements or saved as wealth storage.