French Gold 20 Franc (Rooster)

The French Gold 20 Franc “Rooster” coin, known in French as the Coq d’Or, is one of the most iconic European bullion coins of the early 20th century. Minted between 1899 and 1914, it represents the Third French Republic and stands as a symbol of national pride, stability, and prosperity during a transformative period in French history. Today, the Rooster coin is recognized worldwide for its artistry, symbolism, and enduring role as a trusted form of gold bullion.

Key Features:

• Purity: Like its predecessors, the Rooster 20 Franc coin was minted with a gold fineness of 90%, alloyed with copper for durability. Each coin contains 0.1867 troy ounces of pure gold, ensuring it retains consistent bullion value while also standing the test of time as a circulated coin. Its balance of purity and strength made it practical for both trade and everyday use.

• Design: The obverse of the coin features the profile of Marianne, the national personification of the French Republic, wearing a Phrygian cap adorned with oak leaves — a symbol of liberty and resilience. The reverse depicts the proud Gallic Rooster, a longstanding emblem of France, surrounded by the national motto “Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité.” Together, these images embody the ideals of the Republic and highlight the cultural identity of France during the early 20th century.

• Denomination: While the Rooster is most famous in the 20 Franc denomination, French mints also struck gold coinage in 10, 40, 50, and 100 Franc denominations across different periods of the Republic. The 20 Franc Rooster itself features small variations across years, though its most notable distinction is that many of the later coins dated 1907–1914 were restruck in the mid-20th century, adding a layer of intrigue for collectors.

• Collectability: The French 20 Franc Rooster is a favorite among collectors due to its strong symbolism, artistry, and reliable gold content. The iconic rooster design resonates deeply with French national identity, while its association with liberty and unity adds to its cultural appeal. Affordable relative to many older European gold coins, the Rooster stands out as both an accessible investment and a treasured piece of France’s numismatic legacy.