1980 French 10 Centimes Coin (Copper-Aluminum Alloy)
Coin (Decimal/Circulation) · Aluminum-Bronze/Copper-Aluminum (consisting of 92% Copper, 6% Aluminum, 2% Nickel)
Purity: Non-gold (0% gold content). This is a copper-aluminum alloy often mistaken for gold due to its yellowish hue.
Type
Coin (Decimal/Circulation)
Purity
Non-gold (0% gold content). This is a copper-aluminum alloy often mistaken for gold due to its yellowish hue.
Gold Type
Aluminum-Bronze/Copper-Aluminum (consisting of 92% Copper, 6% Aluminum, 2% Nickel)
Weight
3.0 grams
Description
A circulated French 10 Centimes coin featuring the 'Marianne' design by Lagriffoul on the obverse (not shown) and a wheat stalk/olive branch motif on the reverse. While it possesses a yellow metallic luster, it is a base metal utility coin of the pre-Euro franc system.
Key Features
Denomination '10 CENTIMES', French national motto 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE', and date '1980' with mint director marks.
Color & Finish
Dull golden-brass yellow with significant surface oxidation and grey-brown toning; matte circulated finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and Dolphin (Engraver Emile Rousseau mark) flanking the date 1980.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 20mm; Thickness: 1.41mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Plain, smooth edge (no reeding).
Chain & Links
Not applicable (solid metal disc).
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced by industrial die-striking; features standard mid-20th century minting relief and legibility.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic copper-aluminum 'gold' color which is more bronze than true 24K gold; weight is significantly lower than a gold coin of similar size.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Contemporary France)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1980 (44 years old).
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-revolutionary French values of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity; a staple of daily commerce in 20th-century France.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Fine; significant surface scratching, grime in lettering, and loss of original mint luster.
Value Estimate
$0.10 - $0.50 USD (Numismatic/collectible value only; zero precious metal melt value).
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent further oxidation; avoid abrasive cleaning which removes the numismatic profile.
Similar Items
20 Centimes and 50 Centimes coins from the same era; often confused with 10 Franc gold coins by novices despite the weight and marking differences.
Interesting Facts
Commonly known as the 'Marianne' series, these coins were the primary small change in France until the adoption of the Euro in 2002.