FRANCE. 100 Francs, 1855-A. Paris Mint. Napoleon III. PCGS MS-64+.KM-786.1; Gad-1135. Elite quality for this first issuance of the 100 Francs denomination (not only for Napoleon III, but for France as a country!). While its immediately apparent that the lack of marks over the surfaces meet the qualifications for the assigned near-Gem grade, some of the other attributes of this coin truly set it apart. Perhaps most notable is this coins needle-sharp strike, which not only results in full definition inside Napoleon IIIs hair, but also the incredibly intricate arms that serve as the focal theme of the reverse. The overall originality of this coin must also be celebrated. No signs of past collector handling appear on either side and an sheath of beautiful orange tone accents the open fields. Unquestionably sat aside for ages, the legends have acquired a glowing appearance as a result. An important coin for the French specialist and type collector alike, this is perhaps the second most desirable example of this date in non-Essai form; the alluded to most-desirable being the Specimen-graded example that was once part of the legendary Hammel collection (Stacks 9/1982) that recently brought $144,000 when it was offered again to the market.
