ObverseImage: Wikimedia Commons · Scott Semans. · CC BY 3.0
Swiss 1/2 Franc
Switzerland
1875–2014
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$3.19
Based on Silver spot price ($79.17/oz) · 83.5% purity · 1.5g
Updated 6:41 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | Switzerland |
| Years Minted | 1875–2014 |
| Composition | 0.835 silver |
| Weight | 1.5 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Reeded |
Design
Obverse
Features the Swiss coat of arms with a cross, surrounded by the inscription 'CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA'.
Reverse
Displays the denomination '1/2 FR' along with the year and sometimes additional elements like the value in French, German, or Italian.
History & Notable Facts
The Swiss 1/2 Franc, though diminutive, was minted in silver until 1967, making it a practical everyday piece that outlasted many of its European counterparts in composition.
This coin's design evolved over its long run, starting with the federal coat of arms on the obverse and the denomination on the reverse, all struck at the Bern mint. Early versions used .835 fine silver, which shifted to cupronickel in later years as costs rose. Mintage figures vary by year, but records from the early decades are spotty due to archival losses.
One curious detail: the coin's size meant it was easy to lose in a hurry, much like a polite Swiss apology in a crowded train.
By 2014, production ceased as smaller denominations fell out of favor with digital payments.
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