Coin France 10 Francs 200th anniversary of Montgolfier Ballon - 1983

This 10 Francs commemorative coin, minted in 1983, celebrates the bicentenary of the first balloon flight, a milestone in the history of space exploration. It is made of a copper, aluminum, and nickel alloy, weighing 10 grams and measuring 26 millimeters in diameter. The coin's release coincides with the festivities surrounding the 200th anniversary of this historical event.

The obverse of the coin features a gas balloon basket carrying two passengers, symbolizing the pioneers of aerostation. The face value of "10 FRANCS" is clearly indicated, along with the mintmarks and the year "1983". The circular legend "RÉPVBLIQVE FRANÇAISE" identifies the issuing country. The engraver of this face is Daniel Ponce.

The reverse of the coin depicts a hot air balloon rising into the sky, soaring above a cheering crowd, evoking the enthusiasm and fascination generated by the first flights. The inscription "CONQVÊTE DE L'ESPACE" underscores the commemorative theme. The engraver's signature, "D.PONCE", is also present, as well as the year "1783", the date of the first balloon flight. Daniel Ponce is also the engraver of this face.

The coin's edge is engraved in intaglio with the motto "LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE", separated by motifs of laurel branches, olive branches, and a wheat ear, symbols of the French Republic. There are two variants for the orientation of this inscription: edge A, where the text is readable with the obverse facing up, and edge B, where the text is readable with the reverse facing up.