1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette commemorative coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Yellow Gold (Traditional alloy)
Purity: 920/1000 (22.08K) gold content; contains 92% pure gold by weight
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
920/1000 (22.08K) gold content; contains 92% pure gold by weight
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional alloy)
Weight
17.00 grams (Gross weight); approximately 15.64 grams or 0.5028 troy oz of pure gold content
Description
A striking French commemorative gold coin issued to celebrate the bicentennial of the birth of the Marquis de La Fayette. The reverse design features a stylized tree composed of the words 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' topped with a Phrygian cap, standing on a horizon line above the denomination and date.
Key Features
Modernist typographic tree design; specific 100 Francs denomination; 17g weight specification; honoring the 'Hero of Two Worlds'
Color & Finish
Deep golden yellow with significant heavy dark toning/patina across the fields; original Proof/Uncirculated luster visible beneath toning
Hallmarks & Stamps
Struck with '100F' denomination, date '1987', and the French motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'; features the 'Cornucopia' mint mark for Monnaie de Paris
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter and approximately 1.8 mm in thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; purely metallic numismatic strike with high-relief architectural lettering
Clasp & Closure
Plain reeded edge; typical of government-issued bullion and commemorative coinage
Chain & Links
Standard reeded coin edge; vertical milling used to prevent edge-clipping of precious metal
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure dies at the Paris Mint; features precise lettering and sharp, clean transitions between the field and the raised relief elements.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the '100F' text, sharpness of the Phrygian cap detail, correct mint marks, and specific 31mm diameter consistency for the 1987 La Fayette gold issue.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Commemorative coinage)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1987; currently 37 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical bond between France and the United States through La Fayette, using the core tenets of the French Republic as its central visual metaphor.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent numismatic detail, but shows significant atmospheric toning/environmental surface oxidation that has darkened the surface. No major dings or rim nicks visible.
Value Estimate
Primary value is gold melt content (approx. 0.5 oz gold) plus a small numismatic premium; estimated $1,200 - $1,400 USD depending on current gold spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight coin capsule to prevent further oxidation; handle only by the edges.
Similar Items
1987 Silver 100 Francs (larger/heavier but less valuable), Gold 50 Francs Hercule, or the US Mint's American Gold Eagle (different weight/purity standards).
Interesting Facts
The design was part of a larger series commemorating French history; gold versions were minted in much lower quantities than the silver 100 Francs counterparts, making them highly sought after by bullion investors.