20 Francs

Historical Context: This 20 Francs coin was issued for Réunion between 1955 and 1964, a period covering the late French Fourth and early Fifth Republics. As an overseas department since 1946, Réunion was integrated into the French monetary system. The coin's issuance reflects France's enduring economic and political presence in the Indian Ocean, providing essential local currency and symbolizing metropolitan French authority and stability during global decolonization.

Artistry: The coin's design features the iconic Gallic Rooster (Coq Gaulois) on the obverse, a potent national emblem of France signifying vigilance and pride. This aligns with the functional yet symbolic artistic style prevalent in French republican coinage of the mid-20th century. The reverse displays the denomination "20 FRANCS" and the year within a stylized wreath, often incorporating laurel or oak, with "RÉUNION" clearly inscribed, emphasizing its specific geographic context.

Technical/Grading: Struck in aluminium bronze (92% Copper, 6% Aluminium, 2% Nickel), this 4-gram, 23.5 mm coin possesses a distinctive golden hue. For grading, key high-points include the rooster's comb, wattle, and intricate tail feathers. On the reverse, the raised elements of the wreath and the crispness of the "20 FRANCS" inscription are crucial indicators of strike quality and wear. Well-struck examples exhibit sharp details; circulation wear typically first affects the rooster's plumage and wreath's higher points.