Switzerland Silver 2 Francs Coin, Standing Helvetia Design
Coin/Bullion · Swiss Federal Mint (Swissmint), Bern. Significant as the official mint of the Swiss Confederation since 1848.
Pattern: Standing Helvetia series; design by Albert Walch, introduced in 1874 and used for over a century.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Swiss Federal Mint (Swissmint), Bern. Significant as the official mint of the Swiss Confederation since 1848.
Material
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness) and 16.5% Copper. The total weight is 10 grams with an actual silver weight (ASW) of 0.2685 troy oz.
Dimensions
Diameter: 27.4 mm; Thickness: 1.6 mm; Weight: 10.00 grams.
Description
An iconic example of Swiss numismatic history, this 2 Francs coin features the 'Standing Helvetia.' She is depicted as a guardian of the Alps, adorned with a toga and leaning against a shield bearing the Swiss Cross. The 22 stars encircling her represent the Swiss cantons prior to the 1979 creation of Jura. It is a highly respected coin among silver stackers and world coin collectors for its high silver content and consistent design.
Key Features
The 22 stars on the obverse, the presence of the spear and shield, and the '.835' silver alloy which is specific to Swiss fractional silver of the era.
Material & Composition
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness) and 16.5% Copper. The total weight is 10 grams with an actual silver weight (ASW) of 0.2685 troy oz.
Finish & Decoration
Struck with a matte to satin finish typical of circulated coinage. Features the female personification of Switzerland, Helvetia, standing in robes, holding a spear and a shield with the Swiss cross. Surrounded by 22 stars (representing the cantons).
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'B' mintmark for Bern is typically found on the reverse (not pictured). The obverse shows the text 'HELVETIA' and 22 stars. No standard hallmarks as it is legal tender.
Construction Details
Machine-struck, die-pressed coinage. Features a reeded/grained edge to prevent clipping or debasement of the silver content.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency for the Swiss Confederation; circulating denomination specifically for the 2 Franc value.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as it is a coin; however, the reeded edge provides a tactile grip for identification and to signify silver purity.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting. The alignment of the dies and the clarity of the stars indicate the superior production standards of the Swiss Federal Mint.
Authentication Indicators
Correct die-struck detail (not cast), sharp lettering in 'HELVETIA', and the specific 22-star count consistent with pre-1979 strikes.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bern, Switzerland. Manufactured at the Eidgenössische Münzstätte (Swissmint).
Era & Period
Modern Era (Swiss Confederation). While the design is Neoclassical, this specific composition was used primarily between 1874 and 1967.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1874 and 1967. The silver 2 Francs was replaced by copper-nickel in 1968.
Cultural Significance
Helvetia is the female national personification of Switzerland. This coin represents Swiss neutrality, stability, and the long-standing value of the Swiss Franc in global markets.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF) range. Visible wear on the high points of Helvetia's hair and robes. Some light surface scratches and rim dings typical of circulation. Minimal tarnish.
Value Estimate
$10 - $18 USD depending on the specific year and the current spot price of silver. Rare dates (like 1890-1901) can command significantly higher premiums.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors recommend not cleaning or polishing coins as it destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule to prevent further wear and environmental toning.
Similar Pieces
Swiss 1/2 Franc and 1 Franc silver coins (smaller versions of the same design) and the 5 Franc silver coin (featuring William Tell).
Interesting Facts
The design is so enduring that it remained virtually unchanged for 150 years. Switzerland was one of the last countries to keep silver in its general circulation coinage, only switching to base metal in 1968.