1986 France 100 Francs Silver Piedfort 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · None (Silver composition). The item is white metal with significant dark grey/blue peripheral toning and oxidation.
Purity: 0% (This is not a gold item). It is composed of .900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). One must be careful as modern silver coins with toning can sometimes be mistaken for gold or brass by the untrained eye.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
0% (This is not a gold item). It is composed of .900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). One must be careful as modern silver coins with toning can sometimes be mistaken for gold or brass by the untrained eye.
Gold Type
None (Silver composition). The item is white metal with significant dark grey/blue peripheral toning and oxidation.
Weight
30.0 grams (Standard Piedfort weight for this issue). Note: The standard circulating version is 15g; Piedforts are double thickness/weight.
Description
A French 100 Francs coin featuring the national motto 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' in a stylized, modern typographic stack. Topped by a Phrygian cap (Marianne's symbol) and supported by modern architectural lines. This is a Piedfort edition, meaning it is struck on a planchet twice as thick as standard issues, intended for collectors.
Key Features
Stylized Art Deco-influenced typography; Phrygian cap motif; 100F denomination; double-thickness Piedfort strike indicator; characteristic 1980s French numismatic design.
Color & Finish
Naturally oxidized silver. Dull grey surfaces with high-relief matte lettering against a slightly reflective field. Significant dark toning at the rims.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris mint mark) and a dolphin (Engraver General mark for Émile Rousseau) flanking the date '1986' at the bottom.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, approximately 4.5 mm thickness (Double thickness for Piedfort strike).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely metallic strikes.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge. The coin features vertical ridges along the circumference for security and grip.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular coin geometry with a raised rim and reeded edge finish.
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure machine strike. The die alignment is precise with sharp definition on the serifed lettering and central alignment of the date markers.
Authentication Indicators
Correct mint marks (Cornucopia and Dolphin) for 1986; specific typeface consistency; reeded edge quality. Visible oxidation is consistent with high-content silver alloy.
Origin & Maker
France, struck by the Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Modern (Fifth Republic of France). Circa late 20th Century.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1986; exactly 38 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Celebrates the fundamental values of the French Republic established during the Revolution. The Phrygian cap at the top is a symbol of freedom and liberty.
Condition Notes
Very Fine to Extremely Fine. Significant surface oxidation/toning consistent with PVC flip storage or open-air exposure. No major rim dings visible, but surfaces are muted.
Value Estimate
$30 - $55 USD. Value is based on silver melt (~27g ASW) plus a collector's premium for the Piedfort status.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Silver toning is preferred by collectors. Store in an acid-free, non-PVC airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1986 Standard 100 Francs (15g), 1986 Gold 100 Francs (Proof), or the 1987 Lafayette 100 Francs commemorative.
Interesting Facts
The term 'Piedfort' literally translates to 'heavy foot' or 'strong foot'. Historically, these were made to show off the mint's capability or for presentation to dignitaries.