FRANCE - FRANCE Third Republic (1870-1940). Test of 20 centimes in nickel silver, after Lorthior, round blank 1880, A, Paris. FRENCH REPUBLIC. Bust of the Republic right with a Corinthian helmet decorated with a rooster; below (date). Rv. LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ. Within a wreath formed of two oak branches: 20 CENTIMES (different) (workshop) (different) and below ESSAI. GEM - (cf. 48.1, note) - Maz.2239 - VG.3951; Nickel silver - 25 mm - 6 h This is the second highest grade! From the Carl F. Chirico collection, Bowers and Merena sale, 28 February to 1 March 2008. NGC MS 63 (3075714-004). Special strike with satin-finish relief. Minimal weakness on reverse. Minor handling marks. The NGC shell is slightly degraded. Superb at Fleur de coin.