1988 France 100 Francs ‘Fraternité’ Circulating Coin (Silver Alloy)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Not applicable. The item is silver-colored, composed of 90% silver and 10% copper (standard coin silver alloy).
Purity: None (0%). This item is not gold. It is composed of .900 Fine Silver.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
None (0%). This item is not gold. It is composed of .900 Fine Silver.
Gold Type
Not applicable. The item is silver-colored, composed of 90% silver and 10% copper (standard coin silver alloy).
Weight
15.0 grams (Standard specification for this issue).
Description
A 1988 French 100 Francs coin featuring the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' stacked in stylized block lettering. Above the text sits a Phrygian cap (Liberty cap), and below it rests the fasces (symbol of authority), flanked by the denomination '100F' and the date '1988'. This piece represents late-century French monetary heritage and the transition from silver to base-metal currency.
Key Features
Stylized typographic layout of the French motto; '100F' denomination; Phrygian cap icon; grainy field texture distinctive to this series.
Color & Finish
Cool metallic silver with a matte, grainy background texture (fields) and semi-glossy relief. It shows signs of oxidation and typical circulation patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and Dolphin (Engraver General Emile Rousseau) visible on the reverse; '100F' denomination and '1988' date stamp.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter; 2.1 mm thickness (standard French 100 Francs silver dimensions).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin relies entirely on struck metal relief and typographic design.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. This is a loose coin with a reeded rim (mill-grained edge).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; however, the edge is reeded (grooved) to prevent clipping or shaving of the precious metal.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure machine-struck die work. Features a distinctive textured 'orange-peel' background in the die to contrast with the raised lettering.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style and spacing for the '1988' date; presence of mint marks; texture of the field matches Monnaie de Paris standards for this era; sharp reeding on the edges.
Origin & Maker
France; struck at the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by various artists for the French Treasury.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic (Modern Era), specifically the late 1980s French numismatic design period.
Age Estimate
36 years old (Struck in 1988).
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic through its national motto. The Phrygian cap and fasces are iconic symbols of the French Revolution and statehood.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible surface wear, minor scratches, and significant tarnish/toning consistent with spending time in circulation or loose storage. No major structural damage.
Value Estimate
Value is primarily based on silver content (ASW ~0.434 oz). Current market value is approximately $10-$15 USD depending on the spot price of silver and collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1986 'Statue of Liberty' 100 Francs; 1984 'Marie Curie' 100 Francs; 1982 'Pantheon' 100 Francs. Often confused with 10 Francs coins, which are smaller and bimetallic.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs silver coins were among the last high-value silver coins circulating in Europe before the introduction of the Euro. The grainy texture was designed to make counterfeiting more difficult.