Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Francs 1989, KM# 969, France, 300th Anniversary of Birth of Montesquieu
  • 10 Francs 1989, KM# 969, France, 300th Anniversary of Birth of Montesquieu
Description

Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu (1689–1755), generally referred to as simply Montesquieu, was a French judge, man of letters, and political philosopher.

He is the principal source of the theory of separation of powers, which is implemented in many constitutions throughout the world. He is also known for doing more than any other author to secure the place of the word "despotism" in the political lexicon. His anonymously-published The Spirit of Law in 1748, which was received well in both Great Britain and the American colonies, influenced the Founding Fathers in drafting the United States Constitution.

Obverse

Depicts a portrait of Montesquieu right, the country name above, his name below.

Monogram of Atelier de Gravure des Monnaies et Médailles (group of designers of the Paris Mint): Rosette (letters "agmm") below the portrait

REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE
MONTESQUIEU

Reverse

Patterned denomination above date, surrounded by the national motto of France (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity)

Mint mark: Cornucopia, horn of plenty (Paris Mint - Paris until 1972 or Pessac from 1973)

Privy mark of the Mint's Chief Engravers: Dolphin - Emile Rousseau (1975-1993)

LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ
10 F
1989
FRATERNITÉ

Edge

10 Francs

300th Anniversary of Birth of Montesquieu

KM# 969
Characteristics
Type Commemorative Issue (Non-circulating)
Material Bi-Metallic
Ring Aluminium Bronze
Center Steel
Weight 6.5 g
Diameter 23 mm
Thickness -
Shape round
Alignment Coin
Mint
Paris Mint (A)

Related coins

2nd Empire

Gold, 3.2258 g, ⌀ 19 mm
3rd Republic

Silver, 10 g, ⌀ 28 mm
Provisional Government, Large Head

Cupronickel, 7 g, ⌀ 26 mm