Swiss 10 Francs Gold

What surprises many is that the Swiss 10 Francs gold coin, minted from 1911 to 1922, was produced entirely at the Federal Mint in Bern using 900 fine gold, even as Europe descended into World War I chaos.

This coin, weighing 3.23 grams with 2.903 grams of pure gold, features a simple design: a standing Helvetia on the obverse, holding a spear and shield with the Swiss cross, and the denomination on the reverse. No frills, just solid craftsmanship from a nation committed to neutrality. Mintage figures vary by year, but records for some, like 1915, are spotty due to wartime disruptions—we might never know the exact numbers.

As for myths, I've heard tales of these coins funding secret operations. Rubbish. They were straightforward currency, valued for their metal, not espionage. If you're collecting, remember that wear from circulation can knock down the price faster than a poorly timed Swiss bank holiday.