French Liberte Egalite Fraternite Coin Appraisal

French "LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE" Coin (Dupré engraving)

The item is a silver-toned coin, likely made of a silver alloy given its appearance and historical context. It features a prominent allegorical design on one side. At the center, there is a bare-chested male figure, possibly Hercules or a representation of the French people, with a flowing beard and draped lower body. To his left (viewer's right) stands a female figure, draped in classical attire, symbolizing Liberty, holding a fasces or some other implement. To the male figure's right (viewer's left) stands another draped female figure, presumed to be Fraternity, holding a set of scales, an emblem of justice. Above these figures, encircling the upper edge of the coin, is the inscription "LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE," the national motto of France. Below the central figures, near the bottom edge, the signature "Dupré" is visible, indicating the engraver Auguste Dupré, a prominent French medallist. The coin has a reeded or segmented edge, typical of coinage to prevent clipping. The surface exhibits significant toning and discoloration, with areas of dark tarnishing, particularly in the recesses of the design and around the raised elements, indicating age and exposure. There are also visible spots of what appears to be verdigris or other environmental residue, suggesting it has not been professionally cleaned or preserved. Some wear is evident on the high points of the relief, such as the faces and drapery folds, consistent with circulation, though the overall detail remains reasonably clear. The patina is uneven, reflecting its journey through time. Given the inscription and the artist's signature, it can be confidently identified as a French coin from the late 18th or early 19th century, specifically the Consulate or First Empire period, as Dupré was active during this time and designed coins featuring this motto.