Switzerland Helvetia Standing 5 Francs Silver Coin (Commonly known as the Shooting Thaler or Circulating Silver Five Francs)
Coin/Bullion · Swiss Mint (Eidgenössische Münzstätte), Berne, Switzerland. Founded in 1848, the Swiss Mint is the official mint of the Swiss Confederation, known for extremely high-precision manufacturing.
Pattern: Helvetia Standing (Standing Helvetia with spear and shield)
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Swiss Mint (Eidgenössische Münzstätte), Berne, Switzerland. Founded in 1848, the Swiss Mint is the official mint of the Swiss Confederation, known for extremely high-precision manufacturing.
Material
83.5% Silver (.835 fine silver) with 16.5% Copper. The total weight is 15 grams, containing 12.525 grams (approx 0.4 oz) of pure silver.
Dimensions
31.45 mm in diameter, 2.35 mm thick. Standard weight 15 grams (0.4823 troy oz).
Description
A quintessential example of Swiss numismatic art, this silver 5 Francs piece showcases the 'Standing Helvetia.' The figure is depicted in flowing Greco-Roman robes, symbolizing peace through strength. Its mirror-like fields and crisp raised borders reflect the exceptional craftsmanship of the Berne mint. This is a favorite among silver stackers and historical collectors for its high silver content and timeless neoclassical imagery.
Key Features
22-star border; high-relief Helvetia figure; Swiss Cross shield; reeded edge; 'HELVETIA' exergue.
Material & Composition
83.5% Silver (.835 fine silver) with 16.5% Copper. The total weight is 15 grams, containing 12.525 grams (approx 0.4 oz) of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Reeded edge. The obverse features the personification of Switzerland, Helvetia, standing with a spear in her right hand and a shield bearing the Swiss cross in her left. The design is framed by 22 stars representing the 22 cantons of the Swiss Confederation (prior to the creation of Jura). Neoclassical style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Legend 'HELVETIA' at the base. Mint mark 'B' (Berne) usually found on the reverse (not visible here). The designer's name 'A. BOVY' (Antoine Bovy) and 'INCT' (Incidit) are usually stamped near the base edge.
Construction Details
Die-struck (milled) coin. Produced using hydraulic presses and mechanical collars to ensure uniform reeding and diameter.
Functional Features
Legal tender (historical), monetary exchange unit, and portable store of value. Reeding on the edge functions as a security measure against 'clipping' or 'sweating' the metal.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard coin form intended for handheld tactile exchange.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior die-sinking and strike consistency typical of Swiss manufacture. The detail in the garments (drapery) and the crispness of the stars indicate high-quality hubbing and master tooling.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Swiss Mint font; precise spacing of the 22 stars; correct proportions of the spear; distinct reeding. High-stress areas show expected circulation wear.
Origin & Manufacturing
Switzerland, Berne (Swiss Mint). Built on a tradition of Swiss precision and horological-grade metalwork.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 19th through Mid-20th Century. This specific design was introduced in 1888 and variants circulated heavily through 1967.
Age Estimate
Likelier produced between 1931 and 1967 based on the visible high-relief strike and size, as pre-1931 versions were larger (37mm).
Cultural Significance
Helvetia is the female national personification of Switzerland, representing the Confederation's neutrality, independence, and unity. The coin is a symbol of Swiss fiscal stability.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine. Visible surface scratches and slight high-point wear on Helvetia's chest and the shield. No major dings or rim nicks. Moderate tarnish in the recessed areas (patina).
Value Estimate
$15 – $30 USD depending on the specific year (not visible) and silver spot price. Higher for rare early dates (e.g., 1880s-1920s).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule. Only handle by the edges to avoid fingerprint oils.
Similar Pieces
French 5 Francs (Hercule or Semeuse), Austrian Philharmonics (modern), or the smaller Swiss 1/2, 1, and 2 Franc silver coins featuring the 'Seated Helvetia'.
Interesting Facts
The 22 stars represented the cantons until 1979 when Jura was added. While 5 Franc coins are still used today, the silver content was removed after 1967 to be replaced by copper-nickel due to rising silver prices.