1988 France 100 Francs 'Fraternité' Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Yellow Gold (Classic French 22K alloy with minor silver/copper content for durability).
Purity: 920/1000 Gold (.920 Fine or 22K); contains approximately 92% pure gold. This specific French denomination is a legal tender commemorative issue.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
920/1000 Gold (.920 Fine or 22K); contains approximately 92% pure gold. This specific French denomination is a legal tender commemorative issue.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic French 22K alloy with minor silver/copper content for durability).
Weight
17.00 grams (Gross weight); contains approximately 0.5031 troy ounces of pure gold. It is a solid bullion-grade commemorative.
Description
A striking modern numismatic piece minted to commemorate the bicentenary of the French Revolution themes. The reverse (shown) features a stylized, architectural typography of France's national motto: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, surmounted by a Phrygian cap. The lower section displays the 100 Francs denomination and the year 1988 set within a geometric, modernist design.
Key Features
Stylized 'Art Deco' influenced typography, Phrygian cap motif, high-purity french gold standard (22k), and the signature of Durand-Megret.
Color & Finish
Classic warm yellow gold with a proof-like or high-sheen satin finish. The flat surfaces show some light micro-scratching or handling marks consistent with being out of its original capsule.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse shows 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' and '100F'. Mint marks include the 'Cornucopia' (Monnaie de Paris) and the engraver/director mark (Dolphin for Emile Rousseau) flanking the date 1988.
Dimensions Estimate
31.0 mm in diameter, approximately 1.8 mm thickness. Standard size for the French 100 Francs gold commemorative series.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck metal coin with no stones or enamel elements.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge finishing for security and anti-clipping measures; no mechanical clasp as it is a coin.
Chain & Links
N/A - Circular coin form with a vertical reed (milled) edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck at the Paris Mint. Features high-relief lettering with clean vertical lines and a distinct separation between the polished fields and matte-textured elements.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the Monnaie de Paris cornucopia mark; presence of the Dolphin director's mark; characteristic Durand-Megret signature; correct font weight for the '100F' text.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France. Designed by engraver Durand-Megret (signature 'D. DURAND-MEGRET' visible on the right edge).
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century). Specifically the Fifth French Republic (1958-present).
Age Estimate
Dated 1988; produced exactly 36 years ago as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic established during the 1789 Revolution. These coins were issued as prestigious gift items and stores of value rather than for general circulation.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (Numismatic grade AU/Uncirculated). Shows surface contact marks and light fingerprints/toning consistent with loose handling. No major dings or edge nicks visible.
Value Estimate
Market value is primarily based on the 'Melt Value' (current gold spot price x 0.5031 oz) plus a collector premium of 5-10% depending on condition and demand.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives. Handle only by the edges to avoid oils from fingerprints. Store in a PVC-free airtight coin capsule to prevent toning.
Similar Items
1989 Bicentennial 100 Francs (Angel design), 100 Francs Pantheon, or the 100 Francs Marie Curie gold issues. Comparable to the UK Sovereign in purity but different in weight.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs series featured many different designs in the late 80s and early 90s, but the 'Fraternité' issue is prized for its unique typographic art style which differs from traditional heraldic coins.