Switzerland 1 Franc Coin (Copper-Nickel), 1993
Coin/Currency · Swissmint (formerly the Federal Mint of Switzerland)
Pattern: Standing Helvetia reverse type (oak and alpine rose wreath)
Type
Coin/Currency
Maker
Swissmint (formerly the Federal Mint of Switzerland)
Material
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: This is NOT a silver coin. Silver composition for this denomination ended in 1967.
Dimensions
Diameter: 23.2 mm; Thickness: 1.55 mm; Weight: 4.40 grams.
Description
A standard circulating 1 Franc coin from Switzerland. While it carries the classic design by Albert Walch (introduced in 1875), this 1993 specimen is part of the modern era where precious metals were replaced by copper-nickel. The wreath on the reverse symbolizes Swiss strength (oak) and beauty (alpine roses).
Key Features
1993 date, 'B' mint mark, '1 Fr.' denomination, and the iconic wreath design. The distinctive matte-silver appearance is characteristic of cupro-nickel alloys used in high-circulation currency.
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel). Note: This is NOT a silver coin. Silver composition for this denomination ended in 1967.
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with reeded edge. Obverse features a standing Helvetia with shield and spear; Reverse (shown) features the denomination and date within a wreath of oak leaves and alpine flowers tied with a ribbon at the bottom.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'B' (Bern) located at the bottom center of the reverse; '1 Fr.' denomination and '1993' date stamp.
Construction Details
Machine-struck/die-struck by the Swiss Federal Mint using industrial coin presses.
Functional Features
Legal tender currency (circulating); reeded edge to prevent clipping/counterfeiting.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Numismatic item)
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial minting; precisely struck with clean borders and consistent reeding, typical of Swiss precision manufacturing despite being a base-metal business strike.
Authentication Indicators
Design matches official Swiss Federal Mint specifications for the year; 'B' mint mark placement is correct; font and wreath detail consistent with 1990s dies. The lack of a 'silver' ring when dropped is a primary non-destructive test indicator.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bern, Switzerland; Swissmint.
Era & Period
Modern Swiss Confederation (Post-Silver Era)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1993.
Cultural Significance
Represents the stability of the Swiss Franc, often viewed as a global 'safe haven' currency. The imagery of Helvetia and Alpine flora underscores Swiss national identity and neutrality.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition with visible surface scratches, edge nicks, and typical metallic luster loss. No significant oxidation or tarnish typical of silver, confirming base metal composition. Grade: Fine to Very Fine.
Value Estimate
Face value (1 Swiss Franc). Collector value is approximately $1.50 - $3.00 USD in high-grade circulated condition. No intrinsic silver bullion value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or silver polish as this is a base metal coin. If collecting, store in a PVC-free numismatic flip or capsule to prevent further surface wear.
Similar Pieces
1967 and earlier 1 Franc coins (which contain .835 silver); 1/2 Franc and 2 Franc coins with similar wreath designs.
Interesting Facts
The design for the 1 Franc has remained virtually unchanged since 1875, making it one of the oldest continuously used coin designs in the world.