Commemorative 10 Francs 1986

The 1986 French 10 Francs coin features the Pont du Gard on its reverse, an ancient Roman aqueduct that has carried water—and now, numismatic symbolism—for over two thousand years.

Struck in silver by the Paris Mint, this commemorative piece marked European Heritage Year. The obverse shows the standard Republic effigy, but it's the reverse that draws the eye, with intricate details of the aqueduct's arches. No fancy alloys here; it's pure silver, weighing in at 22.2 grams.

Exact mintage numbers? They slipped through the records somewhere, as these things do. What we know is that it wasn't a high-production run, which keeps it modestly sought after.

One dry note: If coins could talk, this one might quip about outlasting modern trends.