France Gold 20 Francs Louis Philippe I (Lauréat)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Copper Alloy for durability)
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Copper Alloy for durability)
Weight
6.45 grams (Total weight), Contains 5.81 grams of pure gold (0.1867 troy oz)
Description
This 20 Francs gold coin features the profile of Louis Philippe I, the last King of France. The 'Lauréat' (laureate) design depicts the monarch looking left, adorned with an oak-leaf wreath, symbolizing civil virtue and strength. Struck during a period of industrial growth in France, this coin bridges the gap between numismatic history and liquid bullion investment.
Key Features
The 'ROI DES FRANÇAIS' title (instead of King of France) signifying a constitutional monarchy; the DOMARD F. signature; the 90% gold purity standard for the Latin Monetary Union.
Color & Finish
Subdued deep yellow with a historical patina; the surface shows a semi-matte luster consistent with a circulated antique coin.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend: 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS' on obverse; engraver 'DOMARD F.' signature below the neck.
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter, 1.3 mm thickness (Standard French 20 Francs size)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; detailed relief engraving of the King wearing an oak-leaf wreath.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge for security and grip.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; coin features a reeded edge (grooved).
Craftsmanship Details
Masterful die-struck design using high-tonnage steam presses; high-relief portrait showing fine hair detail and textural contrast in the oak leaves.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic orange-yellow hue of French 900 gold; sharp lettering in the legend; reeded edge uniformity; specific weight-to-diameter ratio typical of the 20 Francs specification.
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (French Royal Mint), Paris (A) or other branch mints.
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830-1848)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1831 and 1848.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift from absolute monarchy to a 'popular' monarchy in 19th-century Europe and served as a backbone of European trade for decades.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF). Surface shows minor contact marks and slight smoothing on the highest points of the hair and wreath consistent with age.
Value Estimate
$450 - $550 USD (Based on current gold spot price + typical numismatic premium of 5-10% for this monarch style).
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean chemically as this destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip; handle by the edges only.
Similar Items
Napoleon III 20 Francs Gold, Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli, Italian 20 Lire, 1/4 oz American Gold Eagle.
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was known as the 'Citizen King' and this coin type is part of a lineage that eventually led to the creation of the famous Swiss Vreneli and other LMU gold standards.