1986 France 100 Francs Gold Coin (Statue of Liberty Centennial Edition)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Yellow Gold (Classic French gold alloy with a slight warm reddish-orange undertone due to copper content).
Purity: 22K (.900 Fine Gold); 90% gold and 10% copper alloy. This is the standard fineness for French gold coinage.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
22K (.900 Fine Gold); 90% gold and 10% copper alloy. This is the standard fineness for French gold coinage.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic French gold alloy with a slight warm reddish-orange undertone due to copper content).
Weight
17.00 grams (Standard specification). Actual gold content (AGW) is 0.4919 troy ounces.
Description
This exquisite 1986 French 100 Francs gold coin commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States. The reverse side features the iconic French motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' in a stylized, modern typographic layout with the Phrygian cap at the top. The design is clean, architectural, and reflects the sophistication of French numismatic art of the late 20th century.
Key Features
Stylized typography of the French motto, Philippe Starck-esque geometric aesthetic, specific 'DURAND-MEGRET' maker signature, and the 100 Francs denomination which is less common in gold than the historical 20 Francs.
Color & Finish
Lustrous yellow gold with a matte/satin finish in the background fields and semi-brilliant relief. The photo shows significant surface toning/patina consisting of purplish and reddish hues, likely from storage environment.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Monnaie de Paris mint mark) and the Dolphin (engraver Emile Rousseau mark) flanking the date 1986. Artist name 'DURAND-MEGRET' on right edge. Value '100F' centered.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm in diameter; approximately 2.1 mm thickness. Large format similar to a US half-dollar.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a struck bullion-investment coin with no stones or enamel.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Coin). The edge is reeded (milled) to prevent metal shaving/clipping.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin has a solid strike with high-rimmed edges to protect the central design elements.
Craftsmanship Details
Masterfully struck using high-pressure dies at Monnaie de Paris. The detail in the 'V' shaped architectural supports below the motto shows excellent die-sinking and strike depth consistency.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Parisian mint marks (Cornucopia/Dolphin), correct matte-to-die luster, sharp lettering detail on 'FRATERNITÉ', and specific edge reeding. The toning pattern is consistent with genuine gold/copper alloys.
Origin & Maker
France; Struck at the Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint). Designed by artist Michel Durand-Megret.
Era & Period
Contemporary / Late 20th Century (Modern Commemorative). Issued for the centennial of the Statue of Liberty (1886-1986).
Age Estimate
Dated 1986. Approximately 38 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the enduring alliance between France and the United States and the shared values of the Enlightenment expressed in the motto: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.
Condition Notes
Grade: About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS). Visible heavy iridescent toning across the surface. No major scratches or rim dings are visible, but the patina suggests it has been handled or stored in a high-sulfur environment.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on gold melt value (~$1,100 - $1,200 USD depending on spot) plus a numismatic premium of 5-15% for the specific commemorative design and mintage (approx. 15,000 struck).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish. Toning is preferred by many collectors. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule (non-reactive) to prevent further oxidation. Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves.
Similar Items
1986 US Gold $5 Statue of Liberty Commemorative (smaller), French 50 Francs Hercules Gold, or the standard 20 Francs Napoleon/Marianne gold coins.
Interesting Facts
The Statue of Liberty featured on the obverse (not shown) was sculpted by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. This coin was part of a dual-nation celebration where both France and the US issued commemorative coinage in 1986.