1986 France 100 Francs Silver Coin - 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · None. The item is silver, exhibiting a characteristic cool metallic grey luster with dark peripheral toning (patina).
Purity: 0% (Non-Gold). This item is struck in .900 Fine Silver, meaning it contains 90% pure silver and 10% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
0% (Non-Gold). This item is struck in .900 Fine Silver, meaning it contains 90% pure silver and 10% copper alloy.
Gold Type
None. The item is silver, exhibiting a characteristic cool metallic grey luster with dark peripheral toning (patina).
Weight
15.0 grams (Standard specification for this 100 Francs issue). Actual silver weight (ASW) is 0.4340 troy oz.
Description
An elegant and modernistic French 100 Francs silver coin featuring the national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' in a stylized, architectural font. The lower register displays the denomination and date separated by clean geometric lines, reflecting the French 'Art Modern' influence of the era.
Key Features
Bold, stacked typography of the Republic's motto; the Phrygian cap (Marianne's symbol) at the top; the vertical line motifs and the iconic Monnaie de Paris mint marks.
Color & Finish
Silver-white with significant dark grey and iridescent toning along the rim, suggesting natural oxidation over time. The finish is a Proof-like strike with high-relief lettering against a matte or frosted field.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains the '100F' denomination, date '1986', and the mint marks of the Monnaie de Paris (Cornucopia and Dolphin). The designer 'DURAND-MEGRET' is inscribed on the right side.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter with a thickness of approximately 2.1 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a solid metal commemorative strike.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded (milled) edge finishing typical of circulating and commemorative coinage of the period.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin has a flat, circular planchet with a raised rim and reeded edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck item from the Monnaie de Paris. High quality of relief and sharp edges on the lettering. The alignment is 'Coin Turn' (180-degree rotation between obverse and reverse).
Authentication Indicators
Correct font spacing, mint mark presence (Cornucopia/Dolphin), accurate weight-to-diameter ratio for the 100F silver series, and natural tarnish patterns indicative of silver.
Origin & Maker
France, minted by the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Designed by the artist Durand-Mégret.
Era & Period
Fifth Republic France (Contemporary/Late 20th Century). This specific design reflects 1980s modernist typography.
Age Estimate
38 years old (Produced in 1986).
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic and its enduring commitment to the Enlightenment ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Condition Notes
Very Good to fine. The item shows heavy surface toning/oxidation, minor hairline scratches, and some rim nicks, but maintains strong detail in the high-relief letters.
Value Estimate
Market value is primarily dictated by silver melt value plus a small numismatic premium; typically $15.00 - $25.00 USD depending on silver spot price.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule and handle only by the edges to prevent skin oils from causing further tarnish.
Similar Items
1982 100 Francs Pantheon, 1984 100 Francs Marie Curie, or the 100 Francs silver commemorative series featuring Jean Monnet.
Interesting Facts
The 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' motto originated during the French Revolution and was first printed on coins in the late 18th century. This 1986 version was part of a series intended to honor French heritage.