Obverse

A representation of the Génie de la Liberté (the Spirit of Freedom, approximately), a sculpture located at the top of the "July Column" in Paris, is flanked with the letters R and F, the initials of the French Republic. The rim constitutes a striated geometrical pattern.

Script: Latin

Lettering: R F

Unabridged legend: République Française

Translation: French Republic

Engravers: Jean-Luc Maréchal, Atelier de Gravure (A.G.M.M.)

Reverse

The face value, crossed out with wide stripes, is surrounded by the French motto: "LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ" (liberty, equality, fraternity)

Script: Latin

Lettering:
LIBERTÉ EGALITÉ
10F
1989
FRATERNITÉ

Translation:
Liberty Equality
Brotherhood

Engravers: Jean-Luc Maréchal, Atelier de Gravure (A.G.M.M.)

Edge

5 groups of reeds

Mint

Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date)

Marks

Émile Rousseau, General coin engraver, Monnaie de Paris (1974-1994)Pierre Rodier, General coin engraver, Monnaie de Paris (1994-2000)Gérard Buquoy, Head of the engraving department, Monnaie de Paris (2000-2002)

Comments

Different privy marks throughout mintages.
Dolphin 1988-93 Emile Rousseau.
Bee 1994-2000 Pierre Rodier
Horseshoe 2001 Gérard Buquoy