French 100 Francs Commemorative Silver Coin, 1987 La Fayette Issue
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world, renowned for artistic numismatic production.
Pattern: Commemorative Series; Marquis de La Fayette 200th anniversary of the Assembly of Notables.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world, renowned for artistic numismatic production.
Material
.900 Silver (90% Silver, 10% Copper). Contains 13.5 grams of pure silver (0.4340 troy oz).
Dimensions
Diameter: 31mm; Thickness: 2.1mm; Weight: 15.0 grams (0.482 troy oz total weight).
Description
A striking example of modern French numismatic art, this 100 Franc silver piece commemorates the heritage of the French Revolution. The obverse displays a contemporary, geometric arrangement of the national motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité' above a stylized architectural base. It represents a transition in French design from traditional allegorical figures to bold, modernist typography.
Key Features
Geometric 'Art-Deco influenced' typography; Phrygian cap (Satyre) symbol; .900 silver fineness; commemorative of La Fayette.
Material & Composition
.900 Silver (90% Silver, 10% Copper). Contains 13.5 grams of pure silver (0.4340 troy oz).
Finish & Decoration
Uncirculated/Brilliant Uncirculated striking. Modernist typography featuring the French motto 'LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ' with a stylized Phrygian cap and columns.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia (Paris Mint mark) and 'Engraver General' mark (Dolphin for Emile Rousseau) usually found on the rim or reverse; face features '100 F' denomination and '1987' date.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck at the Paris Mint using high-pressure coinage presses for precision detail.
Functional Features
Milled edge for security; legal tender status at time of issue, though now demonetized in favor of the Euro.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item designed for handheld exchange or collection).
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial mint excellence; sharp relief in lettering; uniform planchet thickness; professionally engraved dies showing clean, crisp lines.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive Monnaie de Paris die-striking quality; correct mass-to-diameter ratio (density of .900 silver); specific '1987' font consistent with mint records.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint (Pessac facility). Produced during the tenure of President François Mitterrand.
Era & Period
Fifth French Republic (Modern Era), late 20th century.
Age Estimate
Dated 1987; exactly 37 years old as of 2024.
Cultural Significance
Represents the French state's use of silver coinage to maintain national prestige and link modern governance to the ideals of the 1789 Revolution.
Condition Notes
Very Fine to Extremely Fine. Visible moderate tarnish (sulfide deposits) across the surface, particularly in the lower hemisphere. Minor contact marks and surface scratches consistent with loose storage.
Value Estimate
$15 - $25 USD (Primarily driven by silver melt value and moderate collector premium for French silver).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule or an acid-free 'flip' to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
100 Francs Panthéon (1982), 100 Francs Marie Curie (1984), and 100 Francs Statue of Liberty (1986).
Interesting Facts
While this coin celebrates the motto, the reverse features the Marquis de La Fayette, the 'Hero of Two Worlds' who fought in both the American and French Revolutions.