Coin France 10 Francs Mathieu - 1976 Edge A

The 10 Francs Mathieu coin, minted in France in 1976, has a face value of 10 francs. It is composed of an alloy of copper, aluminum, and nickel, giving it a specific color and properties. Its weight is 10 grams, and its diameter measures 26 millimeters.

The obverse of the coin features a radiant map of France, in the center of which are the interlaced capital letters "RF," initials of République Française (French Republic). The signature "MATHIEU" is also present, indicating the name of the artist Georges Mathieu, the coin's designer. The year of issue, 1976, is inscribed below the signature. The legend "REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE" completes the obverse composition.

The reverse of the coin represents stylized figures evoking an industrial France. It features shapes of cranes, pylons, and buildings, symbolizing the country's economic activity and industrial development. The face value "10 FRANCS" is inscribed in full.

The edge of the coin is engraved in recess with the republican motto "LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE" (Liberty Equality Fraternity), separated by plant motifs. A laurel branch is followed by the word "LIBERTE," then an olive branch precedes the word "EGALITE," and finally, an ear of wheat is placed before the word "FRATERNITE." There are two types of edge for this coin: type A, where the edge is readable with the map of France facing up, and type B, where the edge is readable with the face value facing up. The coin described here is type A.

The mintage for this 10 Francs Mathieu coin with the type A edge is 94,540,711 copies.