1986 French 100 Francs Liberty Egalité Fraternité Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world.
Pattern: Modern French Numismatics, Commemorative Series
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the oldest continuously running minting institution in the world.
Material
900/1000 Silver (Coin Silver). Contains approximately 0.434 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 31mm. Thickness: 2.1mm. Total Weight: 15.00 grams.
Description
A striking example of French numismatic design, this 100 Franc silver coin eschews traditional portraits for a bold, architectural representation of French Republican values. The stylized tree growth formed by the words of the national motto reflects the growth of the Republic, topped by the iconic bonnet phrygien.
Key Features
Stylized 'Tree of Liberty' typography, 0.900 silver purity, and the 1986 issue date.
Material & Composition
900/1000 Silver (Coin Silver). Contains approximately 0.434 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin uncirculated finish. Obverse features the Phrygian cap and stylized tree typography of the French motto 'Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité'. Art Deco influenced geometric motifs.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (Paris Mint), dolphin engraver's mark (Emile Rousseau), and '100 F' denomination stamp.
Construction Details
Machine-struck, die-pressed planchet with a reed edge.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting; legal tender status at time of issue.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; standard round coin edge.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting with deep relief and consistent edge reeding characteristic of the Monnaie de Paris.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the die-struck lettering, presence of the Monnaie de Paris cornucopia mark, and precision of the 31mm diameter.
Origin & Manufacturing
France, Paris Mint (Pessac workshop).
Era & Period
Modern Republic of France (Fifth Republic), Late 20th Century.
Age Estimate
Dated 1986; minted during the mid-1980s commemorative boom.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of French national identity, representing the enduring legacy of the French Revolution through modern industrial design.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine. Shows light surface tarnish and minor contact marks consistent with being kept in a loose collection rather than a protective capsule.
Value Estimate
$15 - $25 USD, primarily driven by silver spot price and current collector demand in Europe.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip. Avoid cleaning or polishing as it removes the original mint luster and reduces numismatic value.
Similar Pieces
1984 100 Francs Marie Curie, 1985 100 Francs Zola; the 1986 version is notably distinct for its typographic-only obverse.
Interesting Facts
The 100 Franc silver coins were part of a series intended to circulate but were largely hoarded by the public due to their high silver content and artistic value.