French 100 Francs Panthéon Commemorative Silver Coin, 1982
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the state-owned industrial provider of France's coins, active since 864 AD.
Pattern: Commemorative 100 Francs Series; Panthéon design by Atelier de Gravure.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the state-owned industrial provider of France's coins, active since 864 AD.
Material
Silver .900 (90% silver, 10% copper); contains 0.434 troy oz of actual silver weight (ASW).
Dimensions
Diameter: 31mm; Weight: 15.0 grams; Thickness: 2.1mm.
Description
A striking example of French numismatic art, this silver 100 Francs piece showcases the neoclassical architecture of the Panthéon. The clean lines of the Roman-inspired dome and portico are rendered with sharp detail, offset by a mirror-like field. It serves as both a monetary instrument and a tribute to French national identity.
Key Features
High-relief architectural rendering; .900 silver fineness; specific 1982 date; Cornucopia and Dolphin privy marks.
Material & Composition
Silver .900 (90% silver, 10% copper); contains 0.434 troy oz of actual silver weight (ASW).
Finish & Decoration
Brilliant Uncirculated / Proof-like finish featuring a relief engraving of the Panthéon in Paris. Inscriptions include 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE' and the famous dedication 'AUX GRANDS HOMMES LA PATRIE RECONNAISSANTE'.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint) and the 'Engraver General's' mark (dolphin for Emile Rousseau). No silver purity hallmark is required on official currency as the denomination dictates the standard.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck on a machine press using high-tonnage industrial minting equipment for sharp, consistent relief and reeded edges.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting; legal tender status at time of issue; 100 Francs denomination on the reverse (not pictured).
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard numismatic circular form).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck perfection; high-quality die-engraving typical of the French mint which is world-renowned for its artistic coin designs.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the lettering; correct 'leboncoin' watermark on image suggesting secondary market origin; exact match to Monnaie de Paris 1982 dies; presence of official privy marks.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris (Pessac facility), Monnaie de Paris facility, adhering to strict national minting standards.
Era & Period
Fifth French Republic (1958-Present); specifically the early 1980s modern coinage era.
Age Estimate
Dated 1982; 42 years old.
Cultural Significance
The Panthéon is the secular mausoleum of France's greatest citizens (Voltaire, Rousseau, Curie). The coin reinforces the motto found on the building, celebrating French intellectual and heroic heritage.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (BU). Light surface contact marks (bag marks) visible in fields; minimal tarnish; no significant edge knocks or scratches.
Value Estimate
Currently $15 - $25 USD, primarily dictated by current silver spot price plus a small numismatic premium.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it ruins numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip to prevent oxidation (toning).
Similar Pieces
50 Francs Hercules (larger/heavier), 10 Francs Silver (smaller), or later commemorative 100 Francs issues like the 'Marie Curie' or 'Lafayette' editions.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Francs Panthéon was the first silver 100 Francs coin minted for general circulation since the 19th century, though it mostly disappeared into collections due to its silver value.