Swiss 1 Rappen

The Swiss 1 Rappen, introduced in 1850, was the smallest denomination in the Swiss franc system and remained in circulation for 156 years, a testament to its unassuming endurance.

Struck in bronze at the Bern mint, it typically weighed just over a gram and featured a simple cross on the obverse with the denomination on the reverse. Designs varied slightly over the decades, but the coin's purpose stayed straightforward: everyday transactions in a growing nation. Mintage figures for many years are imprecise due to incomplete records from the 19th century.

Early versions used recycled metal from older coins, reflecting Switzerland's practical approach to currency. By the late 20th century, inflation made it nearly obsolete, yet it persisted until 2006.

Some call it the "poor relation" of Swiss coins.