5,81 Gramm Gold 20 French Francs Genius (Lucky Angel)

The "Napoleon" 20 French Francs Genius 3rd Republic gold coin, also known as the "Lucky Angel" or “Guardian Angel”, is a true emblem. Issued in 86 million copies between 1871 and 1898, it was put into circulation after Napoleon III's defeat by Germany, in order to finance France's war debts. The coin marked a real break with the imperial era, and celebrated the birth and values of the Third Republic.

The obverse features Augustin Dupré's famous design of the Genius of the Republic. The angel, with its wings spread wide, stands on a cippus and writes the Constitution on a stele resting on a colonnette, illustrating the solid foundations of the new republican state. A drapery falls elegantly from his left shoulder, while behind him rises a lictor beam, surmounted by the hand of the Just, evoking the strength and authority of the Republic. On the right, a rooster, the French national symbol, stands proudly on one leg. The inscription “République Française” frames the scene, and the engraver's signature “Dupré” appears at the bottom.

The reverse features the “20 Francs” face value in the center, along with the year of mintage (which varies according to availability). The whole is elegantly encircled by a wreath of oak and olive leaves, illustrating strength and peace. At the top, the national motto “Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité” reinforces the coin's republican message. Some coins bear the letter “A”, indicating that they were minted at the Paris workshop.

A notable feature of this coin is the inscription on the edge, which reads “Dieu protège la France” (“God protects France”). This phrase reflects the fact that, although the Republic was established, the separation of Church and State was not yet effective.

Weighing 6.45 grams and containing 5.81 grams of pure gold, the "Napoleon" 20 Francs Genius is a sought-after coin for collectors and investors alike. Add a piece of the monetary and political history of Republican France to your portfolio.

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