French 100 Francs Silver Coin, Fraternité Pattern by Joaquin Jimenez
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the state-owned industrial and commercial establishment that produces France's coins since 864 AD.
Pattern: Fraternité (Brotherhood) design, introduced 1988, part of a series celebrating the motto of the French Republic.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the state-owned industrial and commercial establishment that produces France's coins since 864 AD.
Material
90% Silver (.900 Fine Silver), 10% Copper. Net silver content is 0.4340 troy ounces.
Dimensions
Diameter: 31mm; Thickness: 2.1mm; Weight: 15.0 grams (approx. 0.482 troy oz total weight).
Description
This sleek 1988 100 Francs silver coin represents a transition in French numismatic art, moving toward bold, geometric typography. The reverse displays the national motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' stacked vertically, topped with a Phrygian cap, a symbol of freedom from the French Revolution. The design by Joaquin Jimenez is celebrated for its modern, clean lines, making it a favorite for those who appreciate contemporary graphic design within traditional precious metal formats.
Key Features
The unique stylized 'Fraternité' font with geometric loops; the use of .900 silver which was rare for high-circulation late 20th-century coinage; designer's signature 'J. JIMENEZ'.
Material & Composition
90% Silver (.900 Fine Silver), 10% Copper. Net silver content is 0.4340 troy ounces.
Finish & Decoration
Satin/circulation finish with relief lettering. The reverse features the French motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' in stylized fonts around a Phrygian cap and stylized tree (symbolizing life/growth), designed by Joaquin Jimenez.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint marks flanking the date: a 'Cornucopia' (Paris Mint) and a 'Dolphin' (Director Emile Rousseau). The face value '100 F' and date '1988' are prominently stamped.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck onto a prepared silver planchet. High-pressure minting process ensuring sharp detail in the typography.
Functional Features
Legal tender in France prior to the Euro; reed edge to prevent clipping and debasement.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; standard round planchet with a flat, slightly raised rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Exemplary die-cutting by the Monnaie de Paris. The sharp, clean edges of the lettering and the perfectly centered strike are hallmarks of French state mint quality.
Authentication Indicators
Distinct Monnaie de Paris mint marks (Cornucopia/Dolphin); correct 31mm diameter; high-relief lettering consistency; appropriate metallic ping (resonance) typical of silver alloy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Pessac, France (Monnaie de Paris industrial facility); French numismatic tradition emphasizing high-art engraving.
Era & Period
Modern Republic (Fifth Republic of France), late 1980s, reflecting a postmodern typographic approach to traditional French symbols.
Age Estimate
Dated 1988; 36 years old as of current assessment.
Cultural Significance
Celebrates the bicentennial era themes of the French Revolution. It reinforces the republican values that define modern French identity through everyday currency.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VF) to Extremely Fine (XF). Visible surface bag marks and light circulation wear. Slight oxidation (tarnish) typical of .900 silver in non-airtight storage.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $15 to $22 USD, largely tied to its silver melt value plus a small numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free Mylar flip or PVC-free capsule. Use cotton gloves to prevent skin oils from causing toning.
Similar Pieces
1982 100 Francs (Pantheon), 1984 100 Francs (Marie Curie), and the 100 Francs 'Delacroix' types. Competes with German 5 and 10 Mark silver commemoratives.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs silver coins were briefly minted for circulation but were largely hoarded by the public for their precious metal value rather than spent, leading to many surviving in high grade.