French 20 Francs Louis Philippe I Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion) · Yellow Gold - classic French coinage alloy with a slightly warm/reddish tint due to copper content
Purity: 21.6K (900 Fineness) - 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability
Type
Coin (Numismatic and Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900 Fineness) - 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability
Gold Type
Yellow Gold - classic French coinage alloy with a slightly warm/reddish tint due to copper content
Weight
6.45 grams (Total Weight) / Approximately 0.1867 troy oz AGW (Actual Gold Weight)
Description
A historic 90% gold coin commemorating the reign of Louis Philippe I, the 'Citizen King' of France. The obverse features a bare-headed portrait of the king facing right, surrounded by the inscription 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANÇAIS'. The high relief of the hair and facial features reflects the neorealistic artistic trends of mid-19th century French numismatics. This coin served as a staple of European commerce and remains a favorite for gold stackers and history buffs alike.
Key Features
Characteristic bare-head bust of Louis Philippe I; 'Roi des Français' (King of the French) title rather than 'Roi de France'; standard LMU (Latin Monetary Union) weight specifications.
Color & Finish
Lustrous warm yellow with natural aged patina; surface shows circulation wear and minor contact marks consistent with 19th-century usage
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend: 'LOUIS PHILIPPE I ROI DES FRANCAIS'. Reverse (not visible) would typically feature the denomination, date, and mint mark (e.g., 'A' for Paris or 'W' for Lille)
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm in diameter, 1.3 mm thickness (Standard 20 Francs specification)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None (Edged with lettering or reeding depending on specific year)
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid coin construction with a reeded or lettered edge
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck at a national mint; high-relief engraving by Joseph-François Domard; precise weight tolerances required for mid-18th century monetary standards.
Authentication Indicators
Stylistic consistency of the portrait; specific font and spacing of the legends; characteristic color of 90% French gold; reeded edge alignment. Note: Verification of weight (6.45g) is the best non-invasive test.
Origin & Maker
France - Minted at various French mints (Paris being most common) under the authority of King Louis Philippe I
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830-1848) - 19th Century French Numismatic era
Age Estimate
Produced between 1830 and 1848
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy in France; these coins were part of the Latin Monetary Union, a precursor to the Euro designed to standardize currency across Europe.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Fine (VF) - Visible wear on high points of hair and cheek, minor rim nicks, and surface scuffing. No major gouges visible.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on melt value (~$400-$450 USD depending on spot gold) + 10-20% numismatic premium for better condition or specific mint dates.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish numismatic coins as it destroys collector value; store in a PVC-free archival flip or capsule; handle only by the edges.
Similar Items
Napoleon III Gold 20 Francs (more common), Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli (similar gold content), British Sovereign (slightly heavier at 7.98g)
Interesting Facts
Louis Philippe I was the last King to rule France; he styled himself as 'King of the French' to emphasize the popular sovereignty resulting from the July Revolution. The 20 Francs gold coin is often referred to as a 'Napoleon' regardless of the monarch on the obverse.