French 20 Francs Gold Rooster Coin (Ceres/Marianne design)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (warm rose-tinted yellow due to copper alloy content)
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness) - 90.0% pure gold, 10.0% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness) - 90.0% pure gold, 10.0% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (warm rose-tinted yellow due to copper alloy content)
Weight
6.45 grams gross (approx. 5.8 grams or 0.1867 oz of pure gold content)
Description
A quintessential European gold coin featuring 'Le Coq Gaulois' (the Gallic Rooster) on the reverse and the draped bust of Marianne on the obverse. Known for its historical significance and steady liquidity, it is highly favored by continental investors.
Key Features
Gallic Rooster emblem; '20 Fcs' denomination; high-relief strike characteristic of the Monnaie de Paris
Color & Finish
Classic warm yellow with subtle orange/red undertones; circulated luster with surface patina and contact marks
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: MARIANNE/REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE; Reverse: LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE, 20 Fcs denominations; Edge lettering: DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE or LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE
Dimensions Estimate
21.0 mm diameter; 1.3 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard die-struck bullion coin
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or lettered edge; no mechanical clasp
Chain & Links
Reeded edge finishing common for anti-clipping security
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via steam or electric press; high-precision master dies; consistent density and alloy uniformity across the production run.
Authentication Indicators
Weight display showing 6.47g (consistent with 6.45g standard ± tolerance); specific diameter/color profile matches French 900 fine gold standards
Origin & Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), France
Era & Period
Late 19th to Early 20th Century (Belle Époque / Third Republic)
Age Estimate
Likely minted between 1899 and 1914, possibly 1950s restrikes using original dies
Cultural Significance
Represents the financial stability of the French Third Republic and remains a symbol of French national identity and 'Liberty, Equality, Fraternity'.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine (VF/XF); visible surface wear and minor scuffing consistent with circulation or bulk storage
Value Estimate
Value tracked closely to gold spot price (~$450-$500 USD per coin) with a 3-8% premium for numismatic demand and condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in PVC-free flips or capsules to prevent scratching and copper spots.
Similar Items
Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli, Italian 20 Lire, Belgian 20 Francs (all share the same Latin Monetary Union weight/fineness standards)
Interesting Facts
The Gallic Rooster became the symbol of France after the Revolution, representing vigilance and courage; millions of these were re-struck in the 1950s to satisfy bullion demand.