When it comes to historic gold coins, few are as iconic and elegant as gold French francs. These coins not only offer the enduring value of physical gold but also reflect the rich gold french francs cultural and political history of France. Whether you're an investor looking for reliable bullion or a collector interested in European numismatics, gold French francs are a timeless asset worth considering.
What Are Gold French Francs?
Gold French francs were official currency in France before the euro was introduced in 2002. Struck in 90% pure gold (21.6 karats), these coins were minted primarily in denominations of 10, 20, 40, 50, and 100 francs between the early 19th and 20th centuries. The most popular among these is the 20 Francs Napoleon coin, also known as the "Napoléon d’or".
Key Features of Gold French Francs
Gold Purity: 90% pure gold (0.900 fineness)
Common Weight: The 20 francs coin weighs 6.45 grams (5.81g of pure gold)
Diameter: Approx. 21mm (for 20 francs)
Design: Often features historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis-Philippe, and Marianne, the national symbol of France
Each coin is a piece of French history, making it valuable both for its gold content and its artistic, cultural appeal.
Popular Gold French Franc Coins
Here are a few of the most well-known gold French francs:
? 20 Francs Napoleon III (1852–1870)
Features Napoleon III facing left
Classic wreath design on the reverse
Among the most collected and traded French gold coins
? 20 Francs Marianne Rooster (1899–1914)
Symbol of the French Republic
Features Marianne (liberty figure) and the Gallic Rooster
A favorite for both investors and collectors
? 100 Francs Gold Coin (19th Century)
Heavier and more valuable
Often features the standing genius or Ceres designs
Less common and more expensive than 20 francs coins
Why Invest in Gold French Francs?
✅ Historic and Intrinsic Value
Gold French francs offer a dual benefit—they are both a gold investment and a historical artifact.
✅ Highly Recognizable and Liquid
These coins are widely recognized in Europe and beyond, making them easy to sell or trade.
✅ Smaller Denominations
Compared to modern 1 oz bullion coins, these are more accessible gold french francs and allow flexible investment amounts.
✅ Low Premiums Over Spot
Gold French francs typically have lower premiums compared to newer collectible or bullion coins, offering great value.
Where to Buy Gold French Francs
You can purchase gold French francs from:
Reputable online bullion dealers like APMEX, BullionByPost, or CoinInvest
Auction sites such as eBay (ensure the seller has strong reviews)
Coin shops and numismatic shows
Banks and bullion dealers in France and across Europe
Make sure to verify authenticity, weight, and condition when buying.
Are Gold French Francs Legal Tender Today?
While no longer legal tender after France adopted the euro, gold French francs retain strong demand as investment and collector items. Their value is now determined by their gold content, rarity, and historical appeal—not face value.
Conclusion
Gold French francs are more than just coins—they're miniature monuments to French history, art, and monetary heritage. Whether you’re diversifying your investment portfolio or expanding your coin collection, these timeless gold coins deliver both beauty and bullion value. With a rich history and trusted gold content, gold French francs remain a smart and elegant choice for any investor or collector.
