Silver coins were in regular circulation in Switzerland. The values below represent the intrinsic value of silver coins from Switzerland.
Switzerland silver coins that are in uncirculated condition, or that may be rare and collectible may also have numismatic value. You can use this table as a guide when buying and selling circulated silver coins from Switzerland.
The melt values are calculated and displayed in USD based on the today's silver spot price of $30.04 per troy ounce.
Denomination / Currency | Years Minted | Fineness | Gross Weight (g) | ASW (g) | ASW (oz t) | Melt Value |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1/2 Franc | 1875- 1967 | .835 | 2.5 | 2.09 | .0671 | $2.02 |
1 Franc | 1875- 1967 | .835 | 5 | 4.18 | .1342 | $4.03 |
2 Francs | 1874- 1967 | .835 | 10 | 8.35 | .2685 | $8.07 |
5 Francs | 1888- 1928 | .900 | 25 | 22.50 | .7234 | $21.73 |
5 Francs | 1931- 1969 | .835 | 15 | 12.53 | .4027 | $12.10 |
The history of silver coins in Switzerland can be traced back to the medieval period. Various regions and city-states in what is now Switzerland issued their own coins, often influenced by neighboring countries. These early coins were not standardized and varied significantly in terms of weight and design.
During the Helvetic Republic, which was established following the French invasion, a centralized system was attempted, and the first attempts at standardized coinage were made. However, this period was short-lived, and the republic fell in 1803.
With the establishment of the Swiss Federal State in 1848, a unified currency was introduced. The Swiss franc, subdivided into 100 centimes, became the official currency in 1850. Silver coins in denominations of ½, 1, 2, and 5 francs were introduced.
During the 20th century, the silver content of Swiss coins was gradually reduced. By 1968, due to rising silver prices, the silver content was removed entirely from circulation coins. The last standard silver coins for circulation were minted in 1967.
Today, Swiss silver coins are primarily produced as commemorative or bullion coins. These coins are not intended for general circulation but are popular among collectors and investors. The Swiss National Bank and federal mint issue a variety of silver commemorative coins each year, celebrating Swiss culture, history, and achievements.