1833 Louis Philippe I 40 Francs Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold (historical French alloy with a slightly warmer, reddish tint due to copper).
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness), representing 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness), representing 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (historical French alloy with a slightly warmer, reddish tint due to copper).
Weight
12.90 grams total weight, containing 0.3734 troy ounces of actual gold weight (AGW).
Description
An authentic 1833 gold 40 Francs coin featuring the reverse side design. The center indicates the denomination and date within a tied laurel wreath, encircled by a beaded border. It represents the brief and transformative reign of Louis Philippe I, the 'Citizen King'. This piece exhibits the classic weight and feel of high-value Napoleonic-era circulation currency.
Key Features
Denomination of 40 Francs (double the more common 20 Francs), the 'A' Paris mint mark, and the distinct laurel wreath reverse motif typical of the period.
Color & Finish
Deep rich yellow with warm orange undertones; featuring a circulated luster with significant surface contact marks and a naturally developed patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint marks: 'A' (Paris Mint) visible at the bottom right; Engraver mark (star or specific symbol) at the bottom center; '40 FRANCS' and '1833' stamped on reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
26.0 mm diameter and approximately 2.0 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief-struck metal details only.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security against clipping and decorative consistency.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a standard reeded edge typical of 19th-century French coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck with high-pressure machinery of the 1830s; features vertical reeding on the edge and excellent symmetry in the beaded border.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the '40 FRANCS' lettering, correct weight-to-diameter ratio for the 12.9g specification, and specific wear patterns consistent with 90% gold alloy age.
Origin & Maker
France, struck at the Paris Mint ('A' mint mark).
Era & Period
July Monarchy (Louis Philippe I reign), 1830-1848.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1833; approximately 191 years old.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes the transition of France into a constitutional monarchy and reflects the standardized weight system of the Latin Monetary Union precursors.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) grade. Notable surface scratches, minor dings on the rim, and significant flattening of the wreath leaf details suggest heavy historical circulation. No signs of mount removal.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for gold content plus a numismatic premium. Melt value is approximately $850-$950 depending on spot price, with a total market value of $1,050-$1,250 based on rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or capsule to prevent further scratching.
Similar Items
20 Francs Louis Philippe I (smaller, 6.45g), 40 Francs Napoleon I (earlier Bonaparte issues), or 50 Francs Napoleon III (later empire issues).
Interesting Facts
The 40 Francs is significantly rarer than the 20 Francs 'Napoleon' coins. These were often hoarded during times of war as portable wealth.