French 20 Francs Gold Coin - Marianne Rooster Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (slightly warm/reddish due to historic copper alloy)
Purity: 21.6K / 900 Fine (90% pure gold, 10% copper alloy)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K / 900 Fine (90% pure gold, 10% copper alloy)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (slightly warm/reddish due to historic copper alloy)
Weight
6.45 grams (0.1867 troy oz AGW)
Description
A historic pillar of European gold currency, this 20 Francs piece features the iconic bust of Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic. Wearing a Phrygian cap and an oak leaf wreath, she represents liberty and reason. The reverse typically features the 'Gallic Rooster,' a symbol of French vigilance and bravery, though only the obverse is visible here.
Key Features
J.C. Chaplain signature under bust, distinct Phrygian cap with oak wreath, high-relief striking
Color & Finish
Classic pale yellow-orange with a matte satin luster and light circulation patina
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE'; Reverse: 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' with denomination and year
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter, 1.3 mm thickness (standard French 20 Francs spec)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features high-relief engraving by Jules-Clément Chaplain
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and to prevent metal clipping
Chain & Links
N/A - Circular coin form with upright rim and reeded edge
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional die-engraving typical of late-19th century French neoclassical art; uniform reeding and centered strike
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive matte finish consistent with French 'Pinay' restrikes; correct design proportions; sharp rim definition
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France; Cornucopia mint mark
Era & Period
Belle Époque / Third Republic (specifically 1899-1914)
Age Estimate
Circa 1899-1914 (Original strike) or 1951-1960 (Pinay restrike)
Cultural Significance
A fundamental unit of the Latin Monetary Union which sought to unify European currencies in the 19th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F); visible surface wear on the high points of the hair and lettering; light scratches in the fields
Value Estimate
Spot gold price for 5.8g pure gold plus a 5-10% numismatic premium
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or capsule to prevent scratches
Similar Items
Swiss 20 Vreneli Francs, Italian 20 Lire, Belgian 20 Francs (Leopold II)
Interesting Facts
The 1907-1914 dates were restruck by the French government in the 1950s using original dies to replenish gold reserves.