French 20 Francs Gold Coin, Napoleon III (Laureate Head), modified as Pendant
Coin Pendant (Ex-Bullion/Numismatic) · Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver alloy ratio typical of French minting)
Purity: 90% Pure Gold (21.6K) for the coin; unknown for the jump ring. 0.900 fineness.
Type
Coin Pendant (Ex-Bullion/Numismatic)
Purity
90% Pure Gold (21.6K) for the coin; unknown for the jump ring. 0.900 fineness.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High copper-to-silver alloy ratio typical of French minting)
Weight
Estimated 6.45 grams (original coin weight) minus wear, plus hardware.
Description
A French 20 Francs Napoleon III gold coin that has been converted into a charm or pendant. This specimen represents the 'Napoleon d'Or' which was the backbone of the Latin Monetary Union. The obverse displays the laureated bust of Emperor Napoleon III, though the coin's collectible value is significantly diminished by the physical hole drilled through the rim/portrait area for use as jewelry.
Key Features
Laureate head portrait, thick rim, drilled suspension hole, distinct Second Empire typography.
Color & Finish
Brassy-rose yellow gold; featuring heavy patina, surface abrasions, and circular wear consistent with jewelry use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR'. Reverse (not visible) usually bears year and '20 FRANCS'. No jewelry hallmark visible.
Dimensions Estimate
21mm diameter; Standard US Nickel size; Standard 21mm coin chain mounting.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Metal-only numismatic item.
Clasp & Closure
Simple wire jump-ring inserted through a hole drilled at the 6 o'clock position (alignment upside down).
Chain & Links
Single base-metal or low-karat wire link; roughly hand-twisted and distorted.
Craftsmanship Details
Original mint strike was high quality; the jewelry modification is crude/amateurish, involving a simple drill and wire loop.
Authentication Indicators
Correct lettering style and profile for Barre's design; however, the uneven color suggests surface dirt or non-standard storage. Weight must be verified due to common contemporary counterfeits.
Origin & Maker
Official French Mint (Paris or Strasbourg); Designer: Désiré-Albert Barre.
Era & Period
Original coin: Second French Empire (1861-1870); Modification: Likely 20th Century.
Age Estimate
Coin dated between 1861-1870; modification and wear suggest 50+ years of use.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French imperial power and the 19th-century standard for international currency exchange.
Condition Notes
Poor (Numismatic Fine/VF details). Physical damage from drilling, heavy surface scratches, and potential non-gold solder or base metal ring.
Value Estimate
Primarily Melt Value (Approx. 5.8g fine gold content) minus 10-15% damage discount. Lower value than an intact coin.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with mild soapy water. Do not polish as it removes the historical patina and gold mass. Store separately from harder gemstones.
Similar Items
Swiss Vreneli 'Helvetia' 20 Francs, British Half Sovereigns, or Italian 20 Lire coins.
Interesting Facts
Napoleon III gold coins were frequently used as 'lucky charms' and were so common in Europe that they were the primary gold trade unit for decades.