French 20 Centimes Coin (Lagriffoul Design), Gilded or Brass Interpretation
Coin (Numismatic/Curricular), likely base metal or gold-plated · Yellow Gold finish; appearance suggests either the natural yellow of aluminum-bronze or a secondary gold plating treatment.
Purity: Likely zero (Nickel-Chrome or Aluminum-Bronze) or thin gold plating/vermeil if used for jewelry. Authentic 20 Centimes are not solid gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Curricular), likely base metal or gold-plated
Purity
Likely zero (Nickel-Chrome or Aluminum-Bronze) or thin gold plating/vermeil if used for jewelry. Authentic 20 Centimes are not solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold finish; appearance suggests either the natural yellow of aluminum-bronze or a secondary gold plating treatment.
Weight
4.0 grams (Standard for the 20 Centimes Lagriffoul issue)
Description
An iconic piece of French currency featuring the profile of Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic, wearing a Phrygian cap. This specific design by Henri Lagriffoul is modern and sleek, representing the post-WWII aesthetic of French numismatics.
Key Features
Stylized profile of Marianne; 'LAGRIFFOUL' signature; distinctive French republican typography.
Color & Finish
Dull yellow to brassy tone; matte surface with significant circulation wear and minor scratches/pitting.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse reads 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'; designer signature 'LAGRIFFOUL' visible on the lower left.
Dimensions Estimate
23.5 mm in diameter; 1.7 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None (Reeded or smooth edge typical of currency)
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial die-struck production; consistent thickness and sharp typography despite circulation wear.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches exactly the 20 Centimes denomination. Note: These were never issued in solid gold for circulation; any 'gold' appearance is due to the bronze alloy or aftermarket plating.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France; Designed by Henri Lagriffoul
Era & Period
Modern Era (Fifth Republic, design introduced in 1962)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1962 and 2001 (Pre-Euro)
Cultural Significance
Marianne represents Liberty and Reason, serving as a powerful symbol of the French state's values since the Revolution.
Condition Notes
Circulated (Fine to Very Fine range). Visible surface abrasions, minor edge nicks, and loss of original mint luster.
Value Estimate
Face/Numismatic value: $0.10 - $1.00 USD. If verified as a rare gold assay strike (unlikely), it would require XRF testing.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with mild soap and water; do not use abrasives. If plated, avoid chemical dips that may strip the thin gold layer.
Similar Items
French 10 Centimes and 50 Centimes of the same era (also Lagriffoul design), or the 20 Francs 'Napoleon' Gold Coin (which is actually 90% gold).
Interesting Facts
The model for this Marianne was reportedly a French woman named Catherine Pozzi. This design was part of the 'New Franc' revaluation effort under Charles de Gaulle.