In the glittering age of France’s Second Empire, few objects reflect imperial pride and historic gravitas quite like the 1862 France 100 Franc gold coin. Minted under Emperor Napoleon III, this stunning piece stands as a testament to power, modernization, and enduring legacy.

Imperial Design That Speaks Volumes

The obverse of the coin features Napoleon III crowned with a laurel wreath, echoing Roman imperial iconography and his uncle’s legendary image. Around the portrait reads “NAPOLEON III EMPEREUR”, while the reverse proudly displays the imperial coat of arms, framed by the words “EMPIRE FRANÇAIS” and flanked by the denomination 100 FRS and the year 1862. Along the edge, a raised inscription reads “DIEU PROTÈGE LA FRANCE”—“God Protect France.”

Specifications and Rarity

• Year: 1862

• Mint Marks: A (Paris), BB (Strasbourg)

• Weight: 32.25g

• Diameter: 35mm

• Gold Purity: 90%

• Actual Gold Weight (AGW): Approx. 0.933 oz

• Mintage: ~9,728 pieces across all mints

• Grade: MS62 (Mint State)

Only a handful remain in this pristine grade, making it a standout treasure in any collection.

A Coin Shaped by a Transformative Era

This coin was struck at a time of incredible transformation in France. Napoleon III oversaw sweeping changes—from the modernization of Paris with wide boulevards and railways to ambitious international interventions. His reign straddled art, ambition, and expansion—culminating in both immense achievements and ultimate downfall during the Franco-Prussian War.

Napoleon III: Image, Power, and Propaganda

More than currency, this coin was a medium of imperial identity. The laurel-crowned bust was a calculated image choice, linking his reign to the grandeur of ancient Rome and Napoleon I. With every transaction, the emperor's image reaffirmed authority. Even today, this portrait tells a story of power, pride, and a carefully crafted legacy.

Collector’s Dream, Investor’s Prize

The 100 Franc is the largest face value gold coin of 19th-century France, yet its high denomination made it rare in circulation. Today, it is treasured by collectors and investors alike for its:

• Historical narrative

• High gold content

• Exceptional scarcity

• Visual elegance

Recent auction results show prices exceeding $10,000 to $20,000 for high-grade specimens, with MS65 examples soaring even higher.

Final Thoughts: Owning a Piece of Imperial Grandeur

To own this coin is to hold a chapter of French imperial history in your hands. Whether you’re an enthusiast of European history, a seasoned numismatist, or a gold investor seeking tangible value, the 1862 100 Franc gold coin is a crown jewel. With MS62 preservation, rich historical context, and iconic design, it’s not just a coin—it’s a legacy.