FRANCE - FRANCE Third Republic (1870-1940). Test of 20 centimes Merley, 2nd type, without bundle or branch, blank "à 40 dents" 1887, A, Paris. FRENCH REPUBLIC. Crowned head of the Republic right, with pearl necklace; below signature L. M. and (date). Rv. LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ. In the centre: 20 CENTIMES (workshop) and in the exergue (different) ESSAI (different). GEM.50.8 - VG.4048 - Maz.2258 ; Nickel - 4.48 g - 24.5 mm - 6 h From the sale MDC 14 n° 755. Top Pop: this is the finest graded example! NGC MS 65 (6639730-025). Rare type with scalloped edge or "40 teeth". Grey patina. Very rare. Almost corner flower.