The Austrian Gold Franc/Florin was issued between 1870 and 1892. The coins are official restrikes from 90% pure gold metal and 10% copper alloy, which is responsible for its reddish color. The Crown Gold Coins replaced Austrian Gold Franc in 1893 thereby paralyzing its minting. Before introduction of Crown Gold coins, Austrian Gold Franc were trade coinage minted with the sole intention of international use as bullion coins though partially used as commemoratives within the empire and beyond its borders.
The coin occurs in a dual denomination of 4 Florins/10 Francs and 8 Florins/20 Francs. The 20 Franc coin has a gross weight of 6.45g and is 21.1mm wide, it further spans 1.3mm in thickness. The 10 Franc coin on the other hand has gross mass of 3.2258g and a thickness of 0.8mm and further spans 18.7mm wide. The coin is big attraction to investors as well as coin collectors worldwide. It has a rich history that attracts more premiums, which further contribute to its high intrinsic value.
The Austrian Gold Franc has an obverse that features a right facing portrait of Emperor Franz Joseph with a laurel wreath on his head in his late years. The inscription “FRANCISCVS JOSEPHVS IDC REXET IMPERATOR” encircles the Emperor’s image. The reverse side features the Austrian Coat of Arms superimposed upon a crowned double-headed Imperial eagle. The inscription “IMPERIVM AVSTRIACVM” encircles the Coat of Arms. The face value of the coin is indicated in Florins on the right of the Coat of Arms and in Francs towards the left side. The year of mintage is indicated at the bottom center of the reverse side.
The Austrian Mint is an expert in metal processing and coin production established in 1194 by Duke Leopold V of Austria. The mint strikes some of the world’s best-selling bullion coins, collector coins, and medals. Furthermore, the mint circulates coins and blanks for countries around the world. It is currently the only manufacturer of coins for Austria and is situated right in the heart of the Austrian capital, Vienna. Trading in Austrian Gold Franc/Florin is not subject to sales tax or VAT.
