1970 Switzerland 1 Franc Cupro-Nickel Coin
Coin/Bullion · Swissmint (Federal Mint of Switzerland), Bern
Pattern: Helvetia standing (obverse) and Wreath (reverse) design by Albert Walch
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Swissmint (Federal Mint of Switzerland), Bern
Material
Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel); contains 0% silver
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.22 mm; Thickness: 1.55 mm; Weight: 5.00 grams
Description
A classic 1 Franc coin from Switzerland featuring the iconic wreath reverse. While it shares the same design as its silver predecessors, the 1970 date marks it as part of the cupro-nickel generation. The reverse displays the denomination and year encircled by a detailed oak and alpine flower wreath, symbolizing Swiss natural heritage and strength.
Key Features
Denomination '1 Fr.', date '1970', distinct wreath pattern, and silver-colored but non-precious cupro-nickel alloy
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel); contains 0% silver
Finish & Decoration
Machine-struck circulation finish with a milled edge; reverse features an alpine herb wreath consisting of oak leaves and gentian tied with a ribbon
Hallmarks & Stamps
Reverse: '1 Fr.' (denomination), '1970' (year), and 'B' (Bern mint mark, though sometimes omitted in certain years, it is the standard for this series)
Construction Details
Machine die-struck on a prepared cupro-nickel planchet; mass-produced industrial minting
Functional Features
Serrations (milled edge) for counterfeit prevention and to prevent edge clipping (though less relevant for cupro-nickel than precious metal precursors)
Handle & Grip Details
Replaced by a reeded/milled edge for tactile recognition and to prevent tampering
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision strike typical of Swiss machine minting; clear, sharp relief on the lettering and wreath despite being a base-metal circulation piece.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the '1 Fr.' typeface, correct wreath leaf count and arrangement, and the specific 1970 date which is a known year for the switch away from .835 silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Switzerland; Bern Mint (Swissmint), known for high-quality precision striking and strict metallurgical standards
Era & Period
Modern Swiss Confederation (Post-Silver Standard Era)
Age Estimate
Issued in 1970; currently 54 years old
Cultural Significance
The Swiss Franc is one of the world's most stable currencies; the design of this coin has remained largely unchanged since 1875, reflecting Swiss commitment to tradition and fiscal stability.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF); shows minor circulation wear on the high points of the wreath leaves, light surface scratching, and typical oxidation seen in nickel alloys. No major dings or rim damage.
Value Estimate
$1.10 - $2.50 USD (Essentially face value in Switzerland, with a slight premium abroad for collectors in circulated condition).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with silver creams, as this is cupro-nickel and abrasive cleaners will ruin the numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free paper envelope.
Similar Pieces
1967 Swiss 1 Franc (.835 Silver) - identical design but weighs 5.0g of silver alloy; 1970 1/2 Franc or 2 Franc coins - smaller or larger versions with similar wreath designs.
Interesting Facts
Until 1967, these coins were minted in .835 silver. Due to rising silver prices, Switzerland switched to cupro-nickel in 1968, making the 1970 issue a 'look-alike' to the valuable silver versions.