No.8: 20 Swiss Franc Gold Coin
In 1848, Switzerland became a federal state. Two years later, the Swiss Franc was its monetary unit and the only currency legally minted in the country. It wasn’t until 1883 that the first national gold coin – the 20 Swiss Franc federation coin – came into circulation. It was minted until 1896 before being replaced by the 20 Swiss Franc Gold Coin “Vreneli“. These two coins weigh 6.45 grams, contain 5.81 grams of gold and measures about 21 mm in diameter.
The obverse of the first series of Swiss 20 Francs Gold Coin, also characterized by the “Helvetia Type”, features a portrait of a woman, “Swiss Miss”, standing for Liberty. She’s looking left, wearing a tiara with the inscription “Confederatio Helvetica” engraved on its flanks.
The reverse displays a five pointed star above the Swiss red cross emblazoned on a shield inside of a wreath. On either side of the shield is the inscription “20 FR” and below is the issue date.
20 Swiss Franc Vreneli
Similarly, the obverse of the 20 franc Swiss coin “Vreneli” depicts Helvetia’s profile. She’s wearing a dress decorated with edelweiss and has braided hair, with alpine mountains in the background. The inscription “Helvetia” is engraved on the upper edge and the name of the artist, Fritz U. Landry, at the lower right edge.
On the reverse, we can see the Swiss coat of arms surrounded by an oak branch and a ribbon intertwined. The “B” next to the year of issue is the mint mark of Bern. Finally, on the edge of the coin the 22 stars represent the 22 Swiss cantons.
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