Swiss 2 Francs Silver Coin, Standing Helvetia Type
Coin/Bullion · Swiss Federal Mint (Swissmint), Bern. Significant as the official mint of the Swiss Confederation since 1848, known for precision and high-standard coinage.
Pattern: Standing Helvetia design by Albert Walch. First introduced in 1874 and remains one of the longest-running circulating designs in numismatic history.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Swiss Federal Mint (Swissmint), Bern. Significant as the official mint of the Swiss Confederation since 1848, known for precision and high-standard coinage.
Material
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness) and 16.5% Copper. This specific silver standard was used for 2 Franc pieces between 1874 and 1967.
Dimensions
Diameter: 27.4 mm. Thickness: 2.15 mm. Weight: 10.0 grams total (containing 8.35 grams or 0.2685 troy oz of pure silver).
Description
An iconic example of Swiss numismatic silver, this 2 Francs piece features the elegant Standing Helvetia. Clad in a flowing gown, Helvetia serves as the stoic guardian of the Swiss Alps. The coin is a staple for silver stackers and history buffs alike, representing a time when currency possessed intrinsic metal value.
Key Features
Standing Helvetia figure, 22 stars border, 'HELVETIA' inscription on the pedestal, and the specific .835 silver content distinctive to pre-1968 Swiss coinage.
Material & Composition
83.5% Silver (.835 fineness) and 16.5% Copper. This specific silver standard was used for 2 Franc pieces between 1874 and 1967.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated luster with a reeded edge. Obverse features a standing Helvetia (personification of Switzerland) holding a shield with the Swiss cross and a spear, surrounded by 22 stars representing the cantons. Reverse features the denomination within a wreath of oak and alpine roses.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'B' (Bern) located on the reverse. No silver hallmark needed as the denomination and design constitute the official government guarantee of fineness.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure dies at the Swiss Federal Mint. The design features a raised rim and beading to protect the inner graphics from wear.
Functional Features
Reeded edge intended to prevent 'clipping' or 'shaving' of the silver; served as a high-value circulating medium of exchange within the Latin Monetary Union.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a flat numismatic object without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent precision die-striking. Despite being a mass-produced circulation coin, the detail in the shield's cross and Helvetia's hair demonstrates high-level engraving skills by Albert Walch.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font for 'HELVETIA', characteristic star shapes, and die-striking markers consistent with Swissmint machinery. Weight and diameter are the primary physical checks for authenticity.
Origin & Manufacturing
Bern, Switzerland. Manufactured following the standards of the Swiss Federal Mint, which adhered to the Latin Monetary Union weights and measures.
Era & Period
Modern Era (Swiss Confederation). This design specifically embodies late 19th-century European nationalism and neoclassical personification.
Age Estimate
Dated between 1874 and 1967. Based on the heavy tarnish and wear shown, a pre-1950 date is likely, though the specific year is on the reverse side of the coin.
Cultural Significance
Represents Swiss neutrality and economic stability. Helvetia is a non-monarchical symbol of unity for a country with multiple official languages and cultures.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Features heavy toning/tarnish (sulfide deposits), minor rim dings, and surface circulation scratches. The central details of Helvetia's gown show moderate wear.
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $25.00 USD. Value is mostly driven by its silver melt value (~$7-8) plus a collector premium for older dates or higher grades.
Care & Maintenance
Collectors recommend *never* polishing rare coins. Store in a PVC-free flip or airtight capsule to prevent further oxidation. If used only for silver 'stacking' value, mild soapy water may remove surface grime, but do not rub.
Similar Pieces
Swiss 1/2 Franc and 1 Franc (smaller versions of same design); Swiss 5 Francs (larger 'Alpine Herder' design by Paul Burkhard).
Interesting Facts
The 22 stars represented the cantons of Switzerland; in 1983, a 23rd star was added to represent the new canton of Jura. Despite being silver, these coins circulated alongside identically designed copper-nickel versions after 1967.