1987 France 100 Francs La Fayette Commemorative Coin (Likely Silver, Possibly Plated or Non-Gold Alloy)
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic) · N/A - Appears to be Silver or an alloy. The dark, mottled patina and cool tone suggest silver sulfide tarnish rather than any gold alloy (yellow, white, or rose).
Purity: Non-gold; standard issues of this 1987 100 Francs design were minted in .900 Fine Silver. While gold 'Piedfort' versions exist in 92% (22K) gold, this specific specimen shows dark oxidation/tarnish inconsistent with gold content.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Numismatic)
Purity
Non-gold; standard issues of this 1987 100 Francs design were minted in .900 Fine Silver. While gold 'Piedfort' versions exist in 92% (22K) gold, this specific specimen shows dark oxidation/tarnish inconsistent with gold content.
Gold Type
N/A - Appears to be Silver or an alloy. The dark, mottled patina and cool tone suggest silver sulfide tarnish rather than any gold alloy (yellow, white, or rose).
Weight
15 grams (standard silver issue) to 32 grams (troy weight for gold Piedfort versions). Note: Visible tarnish strongly suggests a silver-based weight.
Description
A French 100 Francs commemorative coin featuring a stylized modern tree design formed by the words 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'. This design was created to celebrate the Marquis de La Fayette. The coin shows significant surface oxidation typical of silver stored in a high-sulfur environment.
Key Features
Stylized 'Tree of Liberty' calligraphy on the reverse; commemorative date 1987; large '100 F' denomination; historical association with the Marquis de La Fayette.
Color & Finish
Dull silvery-grey base with heavy black/brown oxidation (tarnish). The original finish was likely a 'Brilliant Uncirculated' or 'Proof-like' luster, now obscured by environmental patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse features the French national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ'. Denomination '100 F' and date '1987'. Small mint marks (cornucopia for Monnaie de Paris) may be present near the date.
Dimensions Estimate
31 mm diameter, approximately 2 mm thickness (standard crown-sized commemorative).
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin is a struck metal piece without decorative stones or enamel.
Clasp & Closure
None. Standard reeded edge for coinage.
Chain & Links
N/A. The edge is likely reeded (milled), which is a common security feature for 20th-century French coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck by the Monnaie de Paris. High-relief lettering and crisp geometric lines typical of modern French numismatic production.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches the known 1987 100 Francs commemorative. Red flag: The heavy black tarnish is a primary indicator that this is NOT solid gold. Gold does not oxidize in this manner.
Origin & Maker
France; The Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint).
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). Minted in 1987 to commemorate the bicentennial of the Marquis de La Fayette's arrival in America and the French Revolution context.
Age Estimate
Dated 1987; exactly 37 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the historical alliance between France and the United States, as La Fayette is a symbol of shared revolutionary ideals and libertarian philosophy.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The coin shows heavy 'toning' or tarnish which reduces aesthetic appeal for some collectors but may be preferred by others if naturally occurring. No major dings or rim damage visible, though surface details are obscured by patina.
Value Estimate
Approximately $10-$20 USD if silver (based on metal content and collector interest). If it were the rare 1oz Gold Piedfort version, it would exceed $2,200 USD, however, this specimen's tarnish indicates silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives. Use a specialized silver dipping solution or a soft microfiber cloth if necessary. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
1987 100 Francs Gold Piedfort (much thicker and will not tarnish), standard 100 Francs silver bullion coins, or French Ducats.
Interesting Facts
The design is a modern interpretation of the 'Tree of Liberty', a symbol used during the French Revolution. While most circulated in silver, the French Mint often produced 'Gold Piedfort' (double thickness) versions for high-end collectors.