Historical Context
The 1982 10 francs coin was issued by the French Republic to commemorate the centenary of Léon Gambetta’s death (1838–1882), one of the most important political figures of the French Third Republic. Gambetta was an influential republican leader who played a key role during the Franco-Prussian War, notably in resisting the siege of Paris and defending republican institutions.
Description and Specifications
Design and Symbolism
Obverse:
Features a left-facing bust of Léon Gambetta, with the inscription “LÉON GAMBETTA 1838‑1882.” The engraver’s signature, Émile Rousseau, appears discreetly behind the neck.
Reverse:
Shows five waving French flags and a hot air balloon, referencing Gambetta’s famous escape from besieged Paris in a balloon during the Franco-Prussian War. The denomination “10 FRANCS” is centered, along with the year “1982,” the inscription “RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE,” and the motto “LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ.”
Technical Features
- Country: France (French Republic)
- Year: 1982
- Denomination: 10 francs
- Composition: Cupro-nickel (copper-aluminium-nickel)
- Weight: 10 g
- Diameter: 26 mm
- Edge: Smooth
- Minting Technique: Machine struck
- Series: Circulating commemorative coin during the New Franc period (1960–2001)
- Demonetization: Withdrawn from circulation on July 1, 1993, before the adoption of the euro
The Monnaie de Paris mint mark and the engraver’s details are part of the coin’s technical identifiers.
Mintage and Circulation
Approximately 3,044,511 coins were minted in 1982. As a regular circulation coin with a commemorative theme, it was widely used before the euro was introduced.
Numismatic Value
Face Value vs. Collector Value:
While its face value was 10 francs, the coin no longer serves as legal tender after withdrawal from circulation.
Collector Value:
The numismatic value depends on condition, rarity, and demand:
- Common circulated coins are generally worth only a few euros.
- Well-preserved examples (uncirculated, no wear) can fetch higher prices depending on the market or auction platform.
- Special varieties (trial strikes, piedforts in silver or gold) are extremely rare and may command significantly higher prices, often hundreds of euros, depending on condition and collector interest.
Conclusion
The 1982 10 francs Léon Gambetta coin is an interesting example of French commemorative coins, combining historical homage with practical circulation. While relatively common and moderately valued among modern coin collectors, it represents a piece of French history and appeals to those collecting 20th-century or French commemorative coins.
