20 Francs Rooster

The 20 Francs Rooster Gold Coin, also known as the "Rooster" or "Le Coq," is one of France's most famous gold bullion coins, minted during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This coin is part of France's 20 Francs series, and its design, featuring the Gallic Rooster, has made it a symbol of national pride.

Why is the Coin Famous?

The 20 Francs Rooster coin is notable for its rich history and symbolic design. The Gallic Rooster (Le Coq Gaulois) has long been associated with the French Republic, symbolizing vigilance, strength, and a deep connection to French nationalism. This coin gained popularity due to its symbolic design, purity of gold content, and relatively high mintages, making it a popular choice for collectors and investors.

Who Designed the Coin and Why?

The 20 Francs Rooster coin was designed by Jules-Clément Chaplain, one of France's most renowned engravers. Chaplain was commissioned to create a design that would reflect the values and identity of the Third French Republic. He incorporated the Gallic Rooster on the reverse side of the coin, a powerful symbol representing France's spirit, vigilance, and bravery. The obverse side of the coin depicts Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic. She is wearing a Phrygian cap, symbolizing liberty, revolution, and reason.

Coin Specifications and Symbolism

• Weight: 6.4516 grams
• Gold Content: 90% gold (0.1867 troy oz of pure gold)
• Diameter: 21 mm
• Thickness: 1.3 mm
• Edge: Reeded

The 20 Francs Rooster was minted from 1899 to 1914, and like many French coins, it carries mint marks that can help identify the mint of origin. The mint mark "A" may appear near the coin's edge, below the rooster design, indicating minting at the Paris Mint (Monnaie de Paris). Millions of these coins were minted annually.

The rooster represents France's strength and enduring vigilance, while Marianne symbolizes freedom and the Republic.

20 Francs Rooster Coin Value

Some 20 Francs Roosters, depending on their condition (e.g., MS60 or MS65) and rarity, can carry additional value over their melt price. Coins from years with large mintages are often traded close to the melt value, whereas rarer coins in exceptional condition can fetch a premium.

The coin contains 0.1867 troy ounces of pure gold, so its intrinsic value is based on today's gold price.

The 20 Francs Rooster Gold Coin is a highly recognizable and historic French gold coin, popular among investors and collectors. Its symbolic imagery of the Gallic Rooster and Marianne makes it an emblem of French national identity. With fluctuating values tied to the price of gold and numismatic premiums, this coin represents an investment and a piece of European history.

Rooster Gold Coin Auctions