The 20 francs gold "Rooster" (Marianne) coin contains 5.806 g of fine gold (6.45 g at 900‰). It's a very common, highly liquid investment coin: its value follows the gold rate first, with a generally low premium. Here's how to identify it, estimate its value and sell it at the right price.
Struck from 1899 to 1914, the 20 francs gold Rooster shows Marianne on the obverse and a rooster on the reverse. Its specs: 6.45 g total, 900‰ fineness, i.e. 5.806 g of fine gold, 21 mm diameter. It's the most widespread "napoléon", with the same gold weight as the 20 francs Napoléon III.
A 20 francs Rooster's value rests on two elements: its intrinsic value (5.806 g × the day's gold rate) and any premium (the gap between the coin's price and its metal value). On such a common coin, the premium is usually low. To read the rate, see our guide understanding the gold rate.
Compare several buy-back rates (see how to compare): a good buyer states the rate, the calculation and its margin. A coin in good condition, not cleaned, sells better. Beware counterfeits: weight, diameter and sound are clues (see also investment gold coins).
Both weigh the same (5.806 g of fine gold) and are worth the same by weight. The 20 francs Napoléon often refers to all French 20-franc gold coins; the Rooster is the Republic version. For buy-back, the premium difference is minimal.
Its value rests on its 5.806 g of fine gold (intrinsic value = 5.806 g × the day's rate), plus a generally low premium as the coin is very common. Compare several buy-back rates for the best price.
It weighs 6.45 g at 900‰ fineness, i.e. 5.806 g of fine gold, like the 20 francs Napoléon. It's a very liquid investment coin.
Usually low, as the coin was struck in large numbers (1899-1914). Some years or exceptional grades may carry a small collector premium, but most of the value comes from the gold.