The 1814-A Napoleon I 20 Franc gold coin is a historically significant artifact from the final days of Napoleon Bonaparte's First Empire. Graded MS62, this specimen sold at a Stack’s Bowers auction for ¥313,083 (approx. $2,050 USD), highlighting its value as both a numismatic treasure and a tangible piece of European history. In this article, we’ll explore the coin’s design, historical context, investment appeal, and enduring legacy.

Coin Specifications and Design Details

Obverse Design

• Features a left-facing bust of Napoleon I, crowned with a laurel wreath

• Engraver’s signature “DROZ F” near the neckline

• Inscription: “NAPOLEON EMPEREUR” (Napoleon Emperor)

Reverse Design

• Central text: “20 FRANCS” and the year “1814” inside a laurel wreath

• Surrounding inscription: “EMPIRE FRANÇAIS”

• Mintmark “A” indicating the Paris Mint

• Edge inscription: “DIEU PROTÈGE LA FRANCE” (“God protects France”)

Key Specifications

• Year: 1814

• Mint: Paris (Mintmark A)

• Mintage: 327,603 coins

• Composition: 90% gold

• Weight: 6.45 g

• Gold content: 5.806 g

• Diameter: 21 mm

• Engravers: Jean-Pierre Droz (obverse), Pierre-Joseph Tiolier (reverse)

• Catalog number: Gadoury 1025

Historical Context: The Fall of Napoleon I

The year 1814 marked the end of Napoleon’s First Empire. In March, Allied forces (Austria, Prussia, Russia) captured Paris. By April 2, the French Senate declared Napoleon deposed, and on April 6, he formally abdicated. The Treaty of Fontainebleau, signed on April 11, exiled Napoleon to Elba Island, where he would rule a small principality.

Before departing, on April 20, Napoleon famously bid farewell to his Imperial Guard. This 1814 coin was struck during this turbulent period, making it one of the final imperial issues before Louis XVIII assumed the throne during the Bourbon Restoration.

Who Was Napoleon I?

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821) rose from military commander to Emperor of the French. His reign (1804–1814 and briefly in 1815) reshaped Europe through war, reform, and administration.

In 1803, Napoleon reformed France’s chaotic currency system via the Germinal Law, establishing a new gold-to-silver standard. The system set 1 franc to equal 5 grams of silver, and 1 kg of gold equivalent to 15.5 kg of silver. This decimal-based model influenced modern European currency systems and helped stabilize the French economy.

The Germinal Franc and 20 Franc Gold Coin

Before Napoleon’s reforms, France used a mix of outdated coins (e.g., Louis d'or, écus), creating instability. The Germinal Franc standardized coinage with reliable gold and silver weights.

The 20 Franc gold coin—introduced as part of this reform—became a cornerstone of French monetary policy and remained in circulation until 1914. It eventually gained popularity as a reliable gold bullion coin throughout Europe and continues to be collected worldwide.

Coin Classification and Collector Appeal

The 1814-A Napoleon 20 Franc coin fits into several numismatic categories:

1. Napoleonic Gold – Coins minted during Napoleon’s rule.

2. Historic European Gold – Reflecting major events like Napoleon’s abdication.

3. Investment-Grade Bullion – Due to its gold content and liquidity.

4. Empire Coinage – Official issues from the French Empire period.

What makes this coin especially desirable is its link to the end of the First Empire, making it a poignant representation of Napoleon’s fall from power.

Market Value and Investment Potential

Gold Value

With 5.8064 grams of pure gold, its melt value alone is significant. As of March 2025, that equates to approx. $565 USD based on spot prices.

Collector Premium

Graded MS62 (Mint State), this coin commands a premium well above melt value due to its condition and historical context. While average examples trade around $670 USD, auction records show prices reaching up to $10,450 USD for exceptional pieces.

Understanding MS62 Grade

MS62 indicates a mint state coin that retains original luster and has never entered circulation. It may show minor marks or surface imperfections but remains sharply struck and visually appealing.

For context:

• MS60–63: Entry-level mint state

• MS64–65: Above average condition

• MS66–69: Nearly flawless coins

MS62 strikes a balance between collectibility and affordability, making it attractive for both novice and seasoned collectors.

The 1814-A Napoleon I 20 Franc gold coin is a powerful symbol of imperial grandeur and historical transition. Minted in the final days of Napoleon’s rule, this coin not only contains valuable gold but also tells a story of war, exile, and legacy.

Its striking design, connection to major European events, and high-grade preservation make it a remarkable piece for collectors, historians, and investors alike. The ¥313,083 auction result reflects both its tangible value and the enduring fascination with Napoleon’s empire.

Whether you're building a historical collection or seeking a strategic gold asset, this coin is a crown jewel from one of history’s most dramatic chapters.

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