1992 Albertville Winter Olympics 100 Francs Gold Coin (Proof)
Coin (Commemorative Bullion) · Yellow Gold (standard French monetary alloy)
Purity: 22K (92.0% Gold, 8.0% Copper/Silver alloy)
Type
Coin (Commemorative Bullion)
Purity
22K (92.0% Gold, 8.0% Copper/Silver alloy)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard French monetary alloy)
Weight
17.0 grams (0.5466 troy oz actual gold content)
Description
This exquisite 100 Francs gold coin was issued by the French Republic to honor the XVI Olympic Winter Games in Albertville. The obverse features the official games logo—the Olympic flame stylized into the Savoy cross—accompanied by the year 1990 and the face value. It is presented in its original Monnaie de Paris blue velvet-lined case, protected by a specialized coin capsule to preserve its proof quality.
Key Features
Stylized Olympic flame logo, Olympic rings motif, mirrored proof finish, and official French state minting
Color & Finish
Rich deep yellow proof finish with frosted cameo devices and mirrored fields
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris) and Bee/Owl privy marks likely on the reverse; '100 FRANCS' and '1990' date on obverse
Dimensions Estimate
31.0 mm diameter; standard 2mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; coin is protected in a clear acrylic capsule
Chain & Links
Reeded edge (milled) intended for security and aesthetic grip
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure minting with proof dies to create the 'cameo' effect (contrast between frosted graphics and mirror backgrounds).
Authentication Indicators
Specific typography of the Monnaie de Paris, standard reeded edge, correct weight-to-diameter ratio for the 17g French bullion standard
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint)
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century); specifically 1990-1992 Olympic Commemorative Period
Age Estimate
Dated 1990; part of the 1992 Albertville Winter Games series
Cultural Significance
Represents the marriage of French national pride with the global spirit of athleticism and the historical tradition of Olympic commemorative coinage.
Condition Notes
Proof condition (PF/PR-65 or higher); mirror fields appear well-preserved within the capsule with no visible carbon spots or milk spotting. Cabinet friction is absent.
Value Estimate
$1,150 - $1,300 USD (subject to gold spot fluctuations plus a 5-10% numismatic premium)
Care & Maintenance
Store in the airtight capsule provided. Never touch the surface with bare fingers as oils cause permanent staining on proof mirrors. Keep in cool, dry conditions.
Similar Items
1992 Albertville 500 Francs Gold (larger variant), Canadian 1988 Calgary Olympic Gold, or US 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Gold Eagles.
Interesting Facts
The 1992 Albertville Games were the last Winter Olympics held in the same year as the Summer Olympics (Barcelona 1992).