PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

OBVERSE :

Different description according to each country of issuance.

REVERSE :

Twenty francs and the date.

An investment coin in 20 F format, the "Latin" combines coins minted by several European countries to a common standard (900 ‰ denomination, approx. 6.45 g, ~21 mm). It can be found in numerous effigies (French, Swiss, Belgian, Italian, Greek, etc.), fuelling a deep market in Europe.

History of the Union Latine coin

In the mid-19ᵉ century, the desire to unify monetary systems led France, Belgium, Italy and Switzerland to sign a convention in 1865 creating a zone of currency compatibility. The aim was simple: to guarantee the interchangeability of currencies by establishing identical characteristics (weight, denomination, face value) for gold and silver.

The 20-franc module thus became the reference standard: each state issued its own coins, but these circulated equally within the common area, promoting trade and public confidence. Switzerland, for example, regulated its coinage with the law of January 6, 1896, and mass-produced compatible 20 francs in Bern, illustrating the success of the system. The First World War upset this balance: suspension of convertibility, inflationary disorders and national monetary policies marked the system's decline.

Belgium withdrew at the end of 1925, and the organization was officially dissolved in 1927. What remained was a lasting legacy: these "latins" served as a de facto common currency for decades.

 

Price trend of the Union Latine coin over the last twenty years (2005 to 2025)

Over twenty years, the trajectory first mirrors that of the ounce: strong rise 2005-2011 (multiplication by ~6), consolidation 2013-2015, then new bullish cycle since 2019, with record highs in 2024-2025. In each phase, the premium has modulated the price paid: moderate when supply is fluid, more nervous in periods of tension. Numerical benchmarks exist: on December 7, 2012, "latines" were trading at around €245.

 

Why invest in Union Latine coins?

It's standardized investment gold: same size, same title, so easy to appraise and resell. Exchanged worldwide by professionals, it is very popular and highly prized on the European market, where demand is deep and continuous. The practical advantage is that it is available in several effigies, so you can target current vintages to limit overpricing. Finally, thanks to the 20 F format (≈ 5.8 g fine gold), the metal/price ratio is attractive: you acquire a clear quantity of gold.

VARIABLE VINTAGES / EFFIGIES

Vintages and/or effigies of these coins are sent out randomly according to our stocks.

As these are bullion coins and not collector's items, their years of issue or effigies have no impact on their value or resale price.

Photos non contractual.

 

GOLD BULLION COINS FAQ :

 

WHAT IS AN EXCHANGEABLE GOLD COIN?

This is a standardized, liquid gold coin, generally minted after 1800, which is often exempt from VAT in France if it meets the purity and shape criteria defined by regulations.

 

HOW TO INVEST IN PHYSICAL GOLD?

You can buy or sell physical gold (coins or bars), which are considered exchangeable products. We invite you to consult our gold investment guide to help you define your investment strategy.

 

HOW CAN I SELL MY GOLD COIN ?

Simply send it to us by post. We'll send you a free Gold Kit, which explains how to return your investment gold coins to us. You can also fill in the "You're selling" box at the top right of this page, which will give you a real-time price estimate.

 

WHAT CAPITAL GAINS TAX APPLIES TO THE SALE OF INVESTMENT GOLD?

In France, two options are available:

- TMP (flat-rate capital gains tax): 11.5% of the sale price if no proof of sale is provided,

- TPV (taxe sur la plus-value): 36.2% applied to the actual capital gain, with an annual allowance of 5% from the 3rdᵉ year, and total exemption after 22 years of ownership.

 

WHAT IS THE PREMIUM ON A GOLD COIN?

The premium represents the extra cost above the value of pure gold, reflecting manufacturing and distribution costs and market demand. The rarer the condition or vintage, the higher the premium.

 

HOW CAN I STORE MY GOLD SAFELY?

We offer two storage solutions for your precious metals: Gardien'Or and Coffre-Fort Privé.

 

BENEFITS

• Investment gold (tax advantages)
• Exchangeable worldwide
• Ultra popular
• Available in several effigies
• Good ratio metal/price
• Very popular on the European market

IMPORTANT

Our posted buy-back prices are 100% guaranteed for all coins or bars under Godot et Fils seal. Please contact us if you have any questions on this subject.

DELIVERY RATES

Transporteur premium - Valeur Déclarée
Pick up in store

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