French 10 Francs Gold Coin (Cérès or Napoleon III style)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/warm hue due to the copper alloy used for durability
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 Fineness), contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 Fineness), contains 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/warm hue due to the copper alloy used for durability
Weight
3.2258 grams total weight per coin; 0.0933 troy ounces of pure gold content
Description
A pair of classic French 10 Francs gold coins, representing the height of French monetary influence in the Latin Monetary Union. These fractional gold pieces were used in daily commerce and are now staples for European gold stackers and historical collectors. One side features a laurel-crowned portrait or Liberty head, while the reverse displays the denomination and date within a circular wreath.
Key Features
Compact 19mm size, historical '900' fineness, reeded edge, and iconic wreath-enclosed denomination on the reverse side.
Color & Finish
Warm deep yellow with a soft satin luster and natural age patina; circulated finish with minor surface abrasions
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse typically features value '10 FRANCS', year of minting, 'EMPIRE FRANCAIS' or 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE', and mint marks (e.g., 'A' for Paris)
Dimensions Estimate
19 mm in diameter; approximately 0.8 mm thickness; small-form factor currency
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard struck coinage
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; solid coin with reeded or lettered edge
Chain & Links
Reeded edge (vertical ridges) characteristic of French gold fractional coinage of the 19th century
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck coinage with high-pressure precision; features intricate engraving of laurel leaves and delicate typography in the legends.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic luster of 90% gold, precise reeding, and accurate weight-to-diameter ratio typical of the Monnaie de Paris striking standards.
Origin & Maker
France; struck by the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint) or various regional mints
Era & Period
Second Republic or Second Empire (Mid-to-late 19th Century, approx. 1850-1899)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1850 and 1899; approximately 125 to 170 years old
Cultural Significance
These coins were foundations of the Latin Monetary Union, an 1865 attempt to unify European currencies under a single gold and silver standard.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Very Good condition. Visible surface wear and light scratches consistent with historical use as currency. Design remains legible.
Value Estimate
Approximately $200-$250 USD per coin depending on spot price, representing a slight numismatic premium over the melt value of the gold.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish to preserve numismatic value; store in PVC-free coin flips or capsules to prevent further rim damage.
Similar Items
Swiss 10 Francs (Vreneli), Italian 10 Lire, or French 20 Francs (which are larger and twice the weight).
Interesting Facts
The 10 Franc piece was often referred to as a 'Demi-Napoleon' because it is exactly half the weight of the standard 20 Franc Napoleon coin.