French 100 Francs Gold Coin (Genie/Angel Type)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic French coinage alloy with copper for durability).
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness), containing 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness), containing 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic French coinage alloy with copper for durability).
Weight
32.258 grams (approx. 0.9335 troy oz of actual gold content).
Description
A historic French 100 Francs gold coin featuring the 'Genie' (Standing Angel) writing the Constitution. This is one of the most recognizable and respected large-format European gold coins, originally designed by Augustin Dupré.
Key Features
Large '100' denomination, winged angel figure, and the Latin Union standard weight specifications.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow; original mint luster appears muted by wear and potential surface oxidation (patina).
Hallmarks & Stamps
The '100' denomination is visible; edge lettering 'DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE' (God Protect France) is standard for this series.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 35 mm, thickness of approx. 2.3 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard struck metal relief.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or lettered edge (typical of late 19th-century French gold currency).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular planchet with raised rim design.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck with high-pressure dies typical of the French Paris Mint; features high-relief engraving detail on the angel's wings and the tablets.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the '100' and 'FRANCS' text; however, the low-resolution image requires a weight and diameter check to rule out brass counterfeits.
Origin & Maker
France, Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris).
Era & Period
Belle Époque / Third Republic (Late 19th to early 20th century).
Age Estimate
Circa 1878–1914 production based on the 'Genie' and '100 Francs' indicators.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic height of the French Third Republic and the stability of the Gold Standard in Europe.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; the image shows significant blurring, but the metal appears to have heavy surface wear and possible grime/toning consistent with uncleaned circulation.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on gold spot price (approx. $2,000+ melt value) with a potential numismatic premium of 10-20% depending on the specific year and mint state.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free plastic capsule to preserve remaining numismatic detail.
Similar Items
Swiss 100 Francs, British 5 Pound Gold Sovereign, or American Double Eagle.
Interesting Facts
The 'Lucky Angel' design was famously carried by pilots in WWI and WWII as a good luck charm to survive crashes.