Catalog
| Issuer | France |
|---|---|
| Year | 1995 |
| Type | Non-circulating coin |
| Value | 500 Francs (500 FRF) |
| Currency | New franc (1960-2001) |
| Composition | Gold (.920) |
| Weight | 17 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | Pierre Rodier |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#1135, Fr#680 |
| Obverse description | Facing bust |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE 1822 LOUIS PASTEUR 1895 RODIER |
| Reverse description | Scientific instruments. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE 500 FRANCS 1995 (Translation: Liberty Equality Brotherhood) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1995 - Proof - 1 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1010630210 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1995 by the French Republic, this 500 Francs gold coin commemorates Louis Pasteur, a pivotal figure in scientific history. The era reflects France's commitment to honoring its intellectual heritage and national heroes during the late 20th century. Such commemoratives reinforced national identity and pride in French contributions to global progress, particularly in medicine and microbiology, underscoring the Republic's values of enlightenment and scientific advancement.
Artistry: The coin's design is attributed to Joaquin Jimenez for the obverse and Daniel Ponce for the reverse, representing a contemporary academic stylistic school. The obverse features a dignified, realistic portrait of Louis Pasteur, capturing his intellectual gravitas. The reverse depicts a microscope alongside a stylized representation of the rabies virus, symbolizing Pasteur's groundbreaking work in vaccination and microbiology. The composition is clean, balancing realism with symbolic clarity, characteristic of modern French numismatic art.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .920 fine gold with a weight of 17 grams, this coin typically exhibits an exceptional strike quality. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of Pasteur's hair and facial features on the obverse, and the fine lines within the microscope and virus depiction on the reverse. Modern minting techniques ensure sharp definition and full detail, with fields often displaying a proof-like sheen. Any weakness in strike would be unusual, indicating less than optimal production or handling.