The French 20 Francs Napoleon I gold coin is a prestigious numismatic treasure, minted between 1803 and 1815. This exquisite coin features the profile of Napoleon Bonaparte on its obverse, with the inscription “NAPOLEON EMPEREUR” encircling his laurel-crowned head. The reverse displays the denomination “20 FRANCS” within a wreath, along with the year of minting.
Struck in 90% pure gold, this coin weighs 6.45 grams and contains 0.1867 troy ounces of gold, making it a valuable addition to any collection. The French 20 Francs Napoleon I gold coin holds significant historical importance, representing the Napoleonic era and France’s imperial ambitions. It was minted during a period of great change in Europe, reflecting the power and influence of the French Empire under Napoleon’s rule.
Ideal for both collectors and investors, the French 20 Francs Napoleon I gold coin offers a unique blend of historical significance, exquisite craftsmanship, and intrinsic gold value. As a tangible link to one of the most fascinating periods in European history, this coin is a prized possession that enhances any portfolio. Add the French 20 Francs Napoleon I gold coin to your collection today and own a piece of France’s imperial legacy.
Historical Note: Napoleon Bonaparte ‘bestrides European history like a colossus.’ He is arguably the most famous individual in Europe’s long history. A gifted military tactician, states- man and politician, Napoleon conquered most of Europe and, in one of the most famous and vainglorious gestures in history, crowned himself Emperor in 1804 thus fulfilling his ambition to follow in the footsteps of the first French emperor, Charlemagne. Few know that Napoleon, among his many accomplishments, was founder of the Bank of France and a staunch advocate of gold over government issued fiat money.
Andrew Dickson White renders this famous account of Napoleon’s views on state finances and paper money: “[The assignat inflation] ended in the complete financial, moral and political prostration of France – a prostration from which only a Napoleon could raise it. . .at [his] first cabinet council Bonaparte was asked what he intended to do. He replied, ‘I will pay cash or pay nothing.’ . . .[Later] When the first great European coalition was hard pressed financially, and it was proposed to resort to paper money; he wrote to his minister, ‘I will never resort to irredeemable paper money.’ He never did, and France, under this determination, commanded all the gold she needed.”
Mintage Chart | |
---|---|
Year | Mintage |
1802 | 58,262 |
1803 | 1,416,387 |
1804 | 519,645 |
1805 | 154,235 |
1806 | 996,367 |
1807 | 838,514 |
1808 | 1,481,571 |
1809 | 719,173 |
1810 | 2,184,676 |
1811 | 4,067,275 |
1812 | 3,468,474 |
1813 | 3,034,078 |
1814 | 346,910 |
1815 | 463,124 |
Total Mintage | 18,274,042 |
VF
1802-1815
.1867 troy ounce
France
$588.24
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VF, XF
1816-1824
.1867 troy ounce
France
AU, XF
1849-1851
.1867 troy ounce
France
BU, UNC
1848/49, 1871 – 1906
.1867 troy ounce
France
VF, XF
1824-1830
.1867 troy ounce
France
VF, XF
1814-1815
.1867 troy ounce
France
AU, UNC
1852-1870
.1867 troy ounce
France
VF, XF
1830-1846
.1867 troy ounce
France