20 Francs
France 20 Francs (Georges Guiraud Type)
France · 1951
A golden-colored French coin from the Fourth Republic featuring the head of Marianne and a Gallic rooster.
- Country
- France
- Year
- 1951
- Denomination
- 20 Francs
- Metal
- Aluminum-Bronze (91% Copper, 9% Aluminum)
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Overview
A golden-colored French coin from the Fourth Republic featuring the head of Marianne and a Gallic rooster.
Historical significance
Minted during the French Fourth Republic (1946-1958), this series was part of the post-WWII economic restructuring in France prior to the introduction of the 'New Franc' in 1960.
Obverse (front)
Profile of Marianne (the national personification of France) facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap with a cockade. Inscribed 'REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE' and signed by 'G. GUIRAUD'.
Reverse (back)
A standing Gallic rooster (Coq Gaulois) facing left. Above it, the denomination '20 FRANCS', and below the date '1951'. The national motto 'LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE' is around the bottom rim.
Estimated value
$0.50 - $2.00 in circulated condition; $5.00 - $15.00 in high Mint State (MS-63+)
What drives this coin's value
Condition is the primary factor. While 1951 is common, versions with the 'B' mint mark (Beaumont-le-Roger) or specific engraver marks can carry a small premium.
Grade assessment
Fine/Very Fine (VF). The coin shows significant surface wear, dark toning/oxidation, and loss of detail in Marianne's hair and the rooster's feathers.
Mintage & rarity
Common; over 48 million were minted in 1951 across different variations.
Authenticity & counterfeit red flags
Authentic coins are non-magnetic. Check for a sharp strike despite the wear; counterfeit examples of this specific low-value coin are rare but usually appear cast or poorly detailed.
Notable varieties & errors
There are variations in the number of feathers on the rooster's tail (4 feathers vs. 3 feathers) and the presence of the 'B' mint mark.
Similar coins
10 Francs and 50 Francs of the same 'Guiraud' design; they differ primarily in size and denomination numerals.
Care & preservation
Store in a PVC-free holder. Avoid cleaning, especially since aluminum-bronze develops a unique patina that collectors prefer. Handle by the edges to avoid leaving fingerprints.
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