1988 French 100 Francs Brotherhood (Fraternité) Silver Bullion Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · None (Silver Alloy). The item displays characteristic tarnishing and a cool metallic luster consistent with silver rather than the warm, non-oxidizing properties of gold.
Purity: Non-gold; 90% Silver (.900 Fineness). Note: This specific 1988 100F issue was struck in Silver, not Gold. Gold versions of French 100 Francs exist but featured different designs or smaller diameters.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-gold; 90% Silver (.900 Fineness). Note: This specific 1988 100F issue was struck in Silver, not Gold. Gold versions of French 100 Francs exist but featured different designs or smaller diameters.
Gold Type
None (Silver Alloy). The item displays characteristic tarnishing and a cool metallic luster consistent with silver rather than the warm, non-oxidizing properties of gold.
Weight
15.0 grams (Standard weight for the 100 Francs silver series).
Description
A striking modern French commemorative coin featuring stylized typographic art. The reverse (shown) displays the French Republican motto arranged in a geometric, tree-like formation rising from the denomination. It represents the 'Fraternité' (Brotherhood) installment of a commemorative series.
Key Features
Stylized 'Fraternité' typography forming a tree, avant-garde design compared to traditional coinage, and decimal denomination of 100 Francs.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with significant surface oxidation and dark patina. The finish is a standard circulation or proof-like strike with a matte texture in the fields.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '100F' (Denomination), '1988' (Date), and the French national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'. Edge typically features a cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint).
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter; 2 mm thickness (Standard specifications).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely numismatic art struck into the metal blank.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded or smooth coin edge.
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Standard coin edge).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality mint strike. The typography features sharp angles and clear depth, characteristic of the Paris Mint's modern precision machinery.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches the 1988 silver issue of the Monnaie de Paris exactly. Pitting and tarnish are consistent with .900 silver alloy age.
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Designed by artist Emile Gilioli (posthumous style) or similar modernists.
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century). This item commemorates the bicentenary of the French Revolution approach.
Age Estimate
Struck in 1988; currently 36 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic. Part of a triptych of coins celebrating Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF-XF). The coin shows significant toning/tarnishing and surface distractions, but the relief remains sharp and the legends are fully legible.
Value Estimate
Melt value of silver content (~$12-$15 USD) plus a small numismatic premium; total market value approximately $20-$30 USD. Not a gold valuation.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1989 French 100 Francs (Rights of Man), 1986 100 Francs (Statue of Liberty), and the Gold 500 Francs version of similar commemorative programs.
Interesting Facts
While this is silver, the '100 Francs' denomination in gold is historically famous for the 'Angel' or 'Genius' designs of the 19th century, which are highly prized by gold bugs.