1986 France 100 Francs 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' Silver Piedfort (Gold Variant potential)
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Likely White Finish/Silver Alloy; if gold, likely 18K White Gold or Rhodium over Silver
Purity: Non-gold; typically .900 or .925 Silver (Gold plating or white gold variant possible but requires XRF)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-gold; typically .900 or .925 Silver (Gold plating or white gold variant possible but requires XRF)
Gold Type
Likely White Finish/Silver Alloy; if gold, likely 18K White Gold or Rhodium over Silver
Weight
15 grams to 30 grams depending on thickness (Piedfort versions are double weight)
Description
A striking example of modern French numismatic art, this 100 Francs piece features the national motto 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' in a stylized, stacked architectural font. The top is crowned with a simplified Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom, while the bottom clearly displays the 100F denomination and 1986 mintage year. The design balances geometric precision with traditional French symbolism.
Key Features
Stylized 'Liberté Égalité Fraternité' lettering; Phrygian cap icon; Monnaie de Paris cornucopia privy mark
Color & Finish
Cool metallic silver/white tone with a satin-matte background and polished raised typography
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and 'Engraver's' mark flanking the 1986 date; face value '100F'
Dimensions Estimate
31mm diameter; thickness varies by strike (standard vs. piedfort)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; focused on architectural typography and stylized Phrygian cap motif
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or smooth edge typical of French legal tender coinage
Chain & Links
N/A; circular coin planchet construction
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure mint strike; excellent die alignment; crisp relief on the sans-serif and decorative typography
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the '100F' strike; official Paris Mint cornucopia hallmark; correct alignment of the date numerals
Origin & Maker
France; Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint)
Era & Period
Contemporary (1986 production); Modernist French Numismatic style
Age Estimate
Produced in 1986 (38 years old)
Cultural Significance
Represents the core values of the French Republic; designed as part of a series celebrating the heritage of French democracy.
Condition Notes
About Uncirculated to Mint State; minor surface toning/patina around the lettering and edges; light handling marks
Value Estimate
Melt value of silver content (~$15-$25) plus numismatic premium; if rare gold/platinum strike, value exceeds $1,200
Care & Maintenance
Store in a non-PVC airtight capsule; avoid cleaning or polishing which can strip numismatic value; handle by edges only
Similar Items
1986 Silver 100 Francs (standard); Gold Proof 100 Francs (920 gold); Platinum variants of the same design
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs coin was often used for commemorative issues in the late 20th century, exploring motifs of the French Revolution's bicentennial era.