The French 20 Francs Rooster is one of the most affordable, and therefore popular, of all our classic European gold coins. Each coin contains almost a fifth of an ounce (0.1867) of pure gold and is available in Brilliant Uncirculated condition. It is ideal for investors who have the ability to acquire from 20 to 1,000+ coins. The front of the French 20 Francs Rooster features the head of the Third Republic surrounded by the words “REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE”. The Third Republic was established after Napoleon III's defeat in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. This government remained in effect until World War II. France currently operates under The Fifth Republic. The reverse depicts a proud, fully plumed rooster along with the denomination (20 Fcs), the date, and the words “LIBERTE · EGALITE · FRATERNITE”. This phrase, which translates to “freedom, equality, fraternity”, was popularized during the French Revolution against Louis XVI. The original production run of French 20 Francs Rooster gold coins occurred between 1898 and 1914, with surviving coins from the initial year considered especially rare. Coins with dates from 1907-1914 were officially re-struck at the Paris Mint in 1921 and again from 1951-1960. The original mintage of these coins was fairly limited. Scarcity was increased by the melting of millions of gold 20 Francs during the 1930's after private ownership of gold was outlawed in the United States. Even more were melted in the 1970's and 80's when gold soared to $850 per ounce. Surviving French 20 Franc Rooster gold coins in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, are especially desirable today. |
If you are interested in spending over $1,500, please call us at 1-877-376-2646. Lower prices may be available for larger quantity orders. Account Executives are available from 6 A.M. to 6 P.M. PST, Monday through Friday. Given the increased demand for gold and silver coins, orders will be delivered within 28 days of receipt of good funds. |