Swiss Confederation 20 Rappen Coin, 1984
Coin/Bullion · Swissmint (Federal Mint of Switzerland), Bern
Pattern: Libertas Head design by Karl Schwenzer
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Swissmint (Federal Mint of Switzerland), Bern
Material
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel); contains 0.0% Silver
Dimensions
Diameter: 21.05 mm; Thickness: 1.65 mm; Weight: 4.00 grams
Description
A standard circulating 20 Rappen coin from Switzerland. The obverse depicts the personification of Liberty (Libertas) wearing a tiara inscribed with 'LIBERTAS'. This iconic design has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1881, representing Swiss stability and neutrality.
Key Features
Libertas profile, 1984 date, copper-nickel silver-colored appearance, Latin inscription 'Confederatio Helvetica'
Material & Composition
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel); contains 0.0% Silver
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a matte to semi-gloss circulation finish; features the coroneted head of Libertas facing right with 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA' lettering and a beaded border
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA' and '1984'. Reverse (assumed): '20' denomination within a wreath. Mint mark 'B' (Bern) is typically present on the reverse
Construction Details
Machine-struck, die-pressed planchet with a smooth (plain) edge
Functional Features
Legal tender circulating currency of Switzerland
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage)
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision Swiss industrial minting; excellent detail in the hair and crown of Libertas despite base metal composition.
Authentication Indicators
Die-struck lettering and profile consistent with Swissmint standards; specific gravity and color visible in image indicate base metal rather than silver; appropriate wear for 1980s circulation coinage.
Origin & Manufacturing
Switzerland, Bern (Swissmint)
Era & Period
Modern Swiss Confederation (Late 20th Century)
Age Estimate
Dated 1984 (40 years old at time of analysis)
Cultural Significance
Represents the fiscal conservatism and design consistency of the Swiss Confederation; the use of Latin avoids favoring any of Switzerland's four national languages.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VF-XF); displays significant surface oxidation and darkened tarnish (toning), common for nickel alloys exposed to environmental moisture. Minor rim dings and surface abrasions consistent with circulation.
Value Estimate
Face value is 0.20 CHF (approx. $0.23 USD). Collector value in this circulated condition is roughly $0.25 - $0.75 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free coin flip or acid-free paper envelope if collecting.
Similar Pieces
Swiss 10 Rappen (smaller), Swiss 1/2 Franc (silver until 1967, later Cu-Ni), and historical silver 20 Rappen minted prior to the material change in the late 19th century.
Interesting Facts
The 20 Rappen is one of the world's longest-running unchanged coin designs; while it looks like silver, Switzerland ceased using silver for circulating coins (except the 5 Franc briefly) after 1967.