France 20 Centimes (Marianne Type)
Country of Origin: France
Year of Issue: 1981, 1989
Denomination: 20 Centimes
Composition: Copper-Aluminum-Nickel (Oronze)
Brief Description
Small golden-colored coins featuring the profile of Marianne on the obverse and the denomination with wheat/olive branches on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Representing the currency of the French Fifth Republic during the pre-Euro era, designed by Henri Lagriffoul.
Estimated Value
$0.10 - $1.00 USD in circulated condition; up to $5.00 if in pristine uncirculated condition.
Care Instructions
Keep in the current plastic sleeve or a PVC-free coin holder; avoid cleaning as it removes the original luster.
Mint Mark
Cornucopia (Paris Mint) and Dolphin (Engraver Rousseau) or Bee/Bird (Engraver Juenot/Jimenez)
Mintage & Rarity
Common; mintages for these years are generally in the tens of millions.
Weight & Diameter
4.0g, 23.5mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Appears to be About Uncirculated (AU) to Mint State (MS) as they seem to be in original mint packaging strips.
Obverse (Front)
Left-facing profile of Marianne wearing a Phrygian cap, symbolizing the Republic. Legend: REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE.
Reverse (Back)
Denomination (20 CENTIMES) flanked by olive and wheat sprigs, year at bottom, Motto: LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition and the presence of any unique die errors are the primary value drivers for this common series.
Similar Coins
10 Centimes and 5 Centimes of the same design (distinguished by size and numerical denomination).
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for correct weight (4g) and sharp details on Marianne's hair; these are rarely counterfeited due to low value.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Some years have different engraver marks (differents), though none in these specific years are exceptionally rare.
Created At: 2026-06-06T01:25:29.188281