Noi monede comemorative din Franța - 16.10.2025

Utilizați butonul de Translate din dreapta pagini pentru traducere.

This October, the series broadcast by the Monnaie de Paris since 2020 dedicated to the History of American Independence pays tribute to Benjamin Franklin, an American scholar known for his contributions as an inventor, scientist, and diplomat. As a Founding Father, he notably participated in the drafting of the American Declaration of Independence.

Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790)

Benjamin Franklin was one of the most prominent figures of the 18th century and a key player in the history of the United States. Recognized as a scientist, inventor, writer, diplomat, and politician, his influence transcended the borders of his country and his time.

In the scientific field, Franklin conducted pioneering research on electricity. His famous kite experiment, conducted around 1752, was fundamental to the systematic development of the study of electricity.

His research led to inventions and practical improvements such as the lightning rod, bifocal lenses, and the Franklin stove, innovations that significantly improved the daily life of his time. Franklin chose not to patent most of his inventions, believing that knowledge should benefit the public and promote the common good.

As a politician and diplomat, Franklin played a crucial role. He was a member of the Second Continental Congress and served on the Committee of Five, tasked with drafting the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776, alongside Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. Although Jefferson was the primary author of the text, Franklin made editorial suggestions and helped mediate between the colonies thanks to his experience, political tact, and prestige.

He later represented the United States in France from 1776 to 1785. His diplomatic work, especially from 1778 onward, was instrumental in securing the political, military, and financial support of the French government. This alliance, formalized with the Treaty of Alliance of 1778, proved crucial to the American victory over Great Britain and cemented Franklin's position as one of the most admired figures in Europe.

In his old age, he participated as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where, despite his advanced age and fragile health, he contributed primarily as a moral and conciliatory influence, advocating for the need for compromise among the states. His role was more guiding and persuasive than technical, but his prestige and call for unity were fundamental to the Convention's success. Franklin signed the United States Constitution, supporting the creation of a strong federal government.

Design

The reverse of the coins depicts a winged genius holding a lightning bolt, standing in front of a temple with a lightning rod, with a broken crown and scepter at his feet, symbols of the triumph of science and liberty. The Latin legend "ERIPUIT COELO FULMEN SCEPTRUMQUE TYRANNI" (He snatched the lightning from heaven and the scepter from tyrants), inspired by Turgot and popularized in France from 1778, surrounds the scene, underscoring Franklin's dual scientific and political dimensions.

The obverse of the coins features a central image of a profile bust of Benjamin Franklin, inspired by the sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon. The composition is framed by the Latin inscription "BENJ. FRANKLIN NATUS BOSTON. XVII JAN. MDCCVI" (Benjamin Franklin born in Boston, January 17, 1706). The acronym "RF" (French Republic) and the year of issue "2025" appear on the left and right sides of the bust.

20€ coin

Technical characteristics

Face value: 20€
Metal: 999 Silver
Weight: 31.1 g
Diameter: 37 mm
Quality: Proof
Year: 2025
Issue volume: 3,000
Selling price (in France): 141€

25€ coin

Technical characteristics

Face value: 25€
Metal: 999 Silver
Weight: 62.2 g
Diameter: 41 mm
Quality: Proof
Year: 2025
Issue volume: 2,000
Selling price (in France): 335€

250€ coin

Technical characteristics

Face value: 250€
Metal: 999 Silver
Weight: 500 g
Diameter: 85 mm
Quality: Proof
Year: 2025
Issue volume: 250
Selling price (in France): 2,630€

200€ coin

Technical characteristics

Face value: 200€
Metal: 999 Gold
Weight: 31.1 g
Diameter: 34 mm
Quality: Historical (Proof)
Year: 2025
Issue volume: 250
Selling price (in France): 4,180€

Sursa informațiilor aici.