1992 Albertville Winter Olympics 100 Francs Silver Coin (1990 Mintage)
Coin/Bullion - Numismatic Commemorative · Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official French national mint founded in 864 AD, renown for precision numismatic striking.
Pattern: XVIes Jeux Olympiques d'Hiver Albertville 92 - Olympic Commemorative Series
Type
Coin/Bullion - Numismatic Commemorative
Maker
Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), the official French national mint founded in 864 AD, renown for precision numismatic striking.
Material
90% Silver (.900 Fine) and 10% Copper. Contains approximately 0.643 troy oz of actual silver weight (ASW).
Dimensions
Diameter: 37mm; Weight: 22.2 grams (standard French 100 Francs silver commemorative specifications).
Description
This striking silver 100 Francs coin was issued by the French Republic to celebrate the XVI Winter Olympic Games in Albertville. The obverse features the official games logo—a stylized flame of the Savoie region—over the five Olympic rings. The typography is modern and clean, reflecting the design trends of the early 1990s. It comes housed in its original blue presentation case with a velvet-lined interior.
Key Features
Specific '1990' date stamp for a 1992 event; high silver purity; presence of the 'Albertville 92' text and official Olympic rings logo.
Material & Composition
90% Silver (.900 Fine) and 10% Copper. Contains approximately 0.643 troy oz of actual silver weight (ASW).
Finish & Decoration
Brilliant Uncirculated or Proof-like finish featuring a stylized Olympic flame with linear accents. Elements of the design are frosted against a semi-reflective field.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Cornucopia mint mark (La Monnaie de Paris) and the Engraver General's mark (Emile Rousseau, dolphin) on the rim/edge or recessed, plus '100 FRANCS' and '1990' date.
Construction Details
Precision die-struck on a machine press using high-tonnage pressure to ensure sharp transfer of relief details on a prepared planchet.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting and a protective acrylic capsule (as shown) to prevent oxidation.
Handle & Grip Details
None; designed for numismatic display within a protective plastic casing.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior machine strike quality with high-definition lettering and perfectly centered alignment characteristic of Monnaie de Paris.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the '100 Francs' text, crispness of the frosted flame motif, and the official Cornucopia mint mark.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (Paris or Pessac facility); following the French Republican numismatic tradition.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century / Modern Contemporary (Post-War 1990-1992).
Age Estimate
Issued in 1990 in anticipation of the 1992 Winter Olympics.
Cultural Significance
Represents the globalization of sport and France’s third time hosting the Winter Games, serving as a souvenir of international cooperation.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in Mint condition (MS-65 or higher) as it is still housed in the original airtight capsule, protecting it from tarnish and 'milk spots' common in silver bullion.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $45.00 USD, primarily influenced by current silver spot prices and collector demand for Olympic memorabilia.
Care & Maintenance
Keep inside the acrylic capsule. Do not handle with bare fingers as oils cause permanent toning. Store in a cool, dry place.
Similar Pieces
1992 Albertville 500 Francs Gold Coin; other 100 Francs commemoratives like the 'La Fayette' or 'Marie Curie' issues.
Interesting Facts
The Albertville games were the last to be held in the same year as the Summer Olympics; this coin was part of a multi-year series that included different sporting disciplines.