French Coins 10 Francs 1983 Mathieu
Obverse: A map of metropolitan France with rays going from Paris, and stylized initials RF on top. Lettering around outside, date below with privy mark.
The coin represents change of France from tradition to modernity, showing a modern country of energy and technology.
Lettering: REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE RF MATHIEU 1983.
Reverse: Face value 10 FRANCS on band across centre; in the background pieces of industrial architecture - symbol of modern France.
Lettering: 10 FRANCS.
Designer: Georges Mathieu.
Engraver: Émile Rousseau.
Edge: plain with concave inscription: LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ (motto of France - liberty, equality, fraternity) divided by olive branch, laurel branch and cereal ear.
Issue date: 8 XI 1974.
Withdrawal date: 1 VII 1993.
Designer: Atelier de gravure (group of designers of the Paris Mint) based on design of Georges Mathieu (stylised signature MATHIEU on the left side of the map in the obverse).
Mint: Paris Mint mark La Monnaie de Paris (The Paris Mint), Pessac (mint mark before year of issue in the obverse, after year of issue privy mark of mint's director Émile Rousseau - dolphin).
Years: 1974-1987.
Value: 10 Francs.
Composition: Cupro-nickel Aluminium.
Weight: 10 g.
Diameter: 26.01 mm.
Thickness: 2.54 mm.
Shape: Round.