Swiss Confederation 2010 20 Rappen Coin (Cupronickel)
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation) · Not applicable. This is a base-metal alloy colored by its nickel content.
Purity: None. This item is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel (Cupronickel). It contains 0% gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Circulation)
Purity
None. This item is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel (Cupronickel). It contains 0% gold.
Gold Type
Not applicable. This is a base-metal alloy colored by its nickel content.
Weight
4.00 grams
Description
A standard circulation 20 Rappen coin from the Swiss Confederation. It features the head of Libertas, symbols of the Swiss republic, wearing a tiara inscribed with 'LIBERTAS'.
Key Features
Profile of Libertas facing right, 'Confederatio Helvetica' inscription, and the 2010 date. The 'B' mint mark denotes its origin in Bern.
Color & Finish
Silver-white metallic hue with a dull luster and significant surface patina. The finish was originally mint-luster but now shows signs of circulation wear and oil smudging.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA', date '2010', and the 'B' mint mark (Bern Swiss Mint) are visible on the periphery.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 21.05 mm and thickness of 1.65 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded/Textured edge typical of circulation coinage.
Chain & Links
Not applicable.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with a high-speed die process. Sharpness in the 'LIBERTAS' tiara suggests a high-quality original strike used for standard Swiss commerce.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the text, font style of the '2010' date, and the specific profile of Libertas match Swissmint standards. The color is consistent with weathered cupronickel.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland, Swissmint (Bern).
Era & Period
Contemporary (2000s-present); Swiss Franc modern series.
Age Estimate
2010 production date as stated on the obverse.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Swiss Franc currency, known for its stability and neutral heritage. The figure Libertas represents the freedom and independence of the Swiss states.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (VG) circulation grade. Visible smudging, minor surface scratches, and loss of original mint luster. No signs of precious metal content such as gold plating.
Value Estimate
Face value is 0.20 CHF (approximately $0.22-$0.25 USD). No significant melt or premium gold value exists as it contains no gold.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or acids as it will damage numismatic value. Keep in a dry, cool environment inside a non-PVC coin flip.
Similar Items
Vreneli Gold Coins (20 Francs) which are 90% gold; these are significantly different in color (gold/yellow) and weight compared to this base metal piece.
Interesting Facts
The design of the Swiss 20 Rappen coin has remained virtually unchanged since 1881, making it one of the oldest consistent coin designs in current circulation.