French 1814 20 franc Paris Mint

The 1814 French 20 Francs struck at the Paris Mint is a remarkable artifact that captures a sudden and dramatic shift in power. During this single year, the mint produced these gold coins under two opposing regimes. Early in the year, the coinage featured the laureated portrait of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Following his military defeat and subsequent exile, the Bourbon monarchy was restored. The mint immediately transitioned to striking the exact same denomination with the bust of the newly crowned King Louis XVIII. Holding this coin offers a direct connection to a truly pivotal moment in European history.