#30 • 1897 20 Francs French Republic Gold Coin

Part of Gold and Silver Showcase (live auction by Blue Box Auction Gallery)

High bid $625.00

Status: Sold

Estimated Value:$500-700 Origin: Paris, France Denomination:20 Francs Year:1897 Mint: Paris Mint Grade/Condition: F Metal:90% gold 10% copper Weight (+/- 0.2g):6.5 grams Additional Description: Struck in 1897 during the French Third Republic, this 20 Francs gold coin presents the celebrated “Génie” or Guardian Angel design by Augustin Dupré, first introduced in the late eighteenth century and revived a century later as a symbol of enduring republican ideals. On the obverse, a winged figure of the Genius is shown inscribing the French Constitution upon a tablet, accompanied by a rooster and a fasces—emblems of vigilance and civic strength—alongside a torch and laurel wreath that evoke enlightenment and honor. The reverse bears the denomination within a finely balanced wreath, framed by the national motto Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité. Believed to be of F (Fine) grade, this example shows even wear from circulation yet retains the clarity of its classical motifs.