French 100 Francs Panthéon Commemorative Silver Coin, 1989
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the oldest continuously running mint in France, established in 864 AD.
Pattern: French Franc Republic series; Panthéon reverse design by Joaquín Jiménez.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the oldest continuously running mint in France, established in 864 AD.
Material
.900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). Contains approximately 13.5 grams of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 31mm; Thickness: 2.1mm; Weight: 15.00 grams (0.4822 troy oz ASW).
Description
A robust silver commemorative coin featuring a bold modernist design by Joaquín Jiménez. The reverse showcases the Republican motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' integrated into a geometric representation of the Panthéon in Paris. It represents a transition period in French numismatics toward high-denomination silver commemoratives intended for both circulation and collectors.
Key Features
Distinctive architectural 'F' design; Phrygian cap motif; 90% silver purity; bicentennial commemorative status.
Material & Composition
.900 Fine Silver (90% silver, 10% copper). Contains approximately 13.5 grams of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated mint finish with relief engraving. Features the Phrygian cap (Liberty cap) atop the words 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' and a stylized architectural representation of the Panthéon columns.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Struck with the cornucopia mint mark (Paris) and the 'engraver's general' mark (dolphin for Emile Rousseau). Denomination '100 F' and date '1989' displayed on reverse.
Construction Details
Machine-struck, die-pressed planchet with a reed edge to prevent clipping/shaving of the silver.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for security; legal tender status in France until the adoption of the Euro in 2002.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Numismatic object designed for hand-held inspection or storage in capsules/folders.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial die-striking. The design shows clean lines and deep recesses typical of the Paris Mint’s modern period, utilizing the Jimenez modernistic aesthetic.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of leaf motifs and text; correct font for the 1989 date; presence of official cornucopia mint mark; weight should be exactly 15g.
Origin & Manufacturing
Pessac, France (industrial facility of the Monnaie de Paris); traditional French minting excellence.
Era & Period
Modern Republic (Fifth Republic); struck to commemorate the bicentenary of the French Revolution (1789-1989).
Age Estimate
Dated 1989 (35 years old at the time of this assessment).
Cultural Significance
Celebrates the 200th anniversary of the French Revolution; reflects the enduring national identity of the Republic through numismatic art.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (XF). Visible surface tarnish/toning (sulfide deposits), minor contact marks or 'bag marks' consistent with light circulation or loose storage. No major dings or rim nicks.
Value Estimate
$15.00 - $22.00 USD. Value is heavily tied to the spot price of silver, plus a small numismatic premium for commemorative interest.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or acid-free paper envelope. Use cotton gloves to avoid skin oils causing dark spots.
Similar Pieces
100 Francs René Descartes (1991), 100 Francs Jean Monnet (1988), and the heavier 50 Francs Hercules (~30g) from the 1970s.
Interesting Facts
The Panthéon on this coin originally served as a church but is now a secular mausoleum for France's greatest citizens including Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.