Swiss 2 Francs Helvetia Standing Silver Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · Not applicable; item is silver. Visual appearance shows the cool, metallic grey of a silver alloy.
Purity: 0% (Non-gold). This is a silver coin consisting of 83.5% silver (835/1000 fineness).
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
0% (Non-gold). This is a silver coin consisting of 83.5% silver (835/1000 fineness).
Gold Type
Not applicable; item is silver. Visual appearance shows the cool, metallic grey of a silver alloy.
Weight
10.00 grams (Standard weight for this 2 Francs denomination). Contains 8.35 grams of fine silver.
Description
This is a classic Swiss 2 Francs denomination coin featuring the standing figure of Helvetia, the female personification of Switzerland. She is depicted wearing a toga, holding a spear in her right hand, and resting her left hand on a shield bearing the Swiss cross. The border is adorned with 22 stars representing the cantons of the Swiss Confederation. It is a hallmark of European numismatic stability and artistic classicism.
Key Features
Helvetia figure, 22 stars border, 'HELVETIA' inscription, Swiss cross on shield, reeded edge.
Color & Finish
Metallic silver-grey with a circulated patina. Shows light toning in recessed areas around the stars and lettering.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Text 'HELVETIA' at the bottom; 22 stars representing Swiss cantons; reverse (not shown) would feature 2 FR and the year.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 27.4 mm; Thickness: 1.6 mm. Standard size for Swiss 2 Franc circulation coinage.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design is purely struck metal in relief.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded edge for security and grip).
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Solid planchet construction with a reeded edge).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure dies at the Swiss Federal Mint. Features excellent relief layering and precise rim denticles.
Authentication Indicators
Correct alignment of stars, specific profile of the Helvetia figure, crispness of 'HELVETIA' text. Red flag: Silver-colored coins are often mistaken for white gold in low light, but the design is a standard currency issue.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Minted by the Federal Mint (Swissmint) in Bern (Marked 'B').
Era & Period
Modern Era (Design originally by Albert Walch, late 19th century to present).
Age Estimate
Circa 1968-present if cupro-nickel, but if silver (indicated by luster), likely dated between 1874 and 1967.
Cultural Significance
Helvetia represents the neutrality, peace, and confederated unity of the Swiss people, serving as a powerful national symbol akin to Lady Liberty or Britannia.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VG-F). Visible wear on the higher points of Helvetia's dress and the shield. No major gouges or scratches, but consistent circulation wear.
Value Estimate
Numismatic value: $8.00 - $15.00 USD depending on the year; Melt value: approximately $7.00 - $8.00 USD based on current silver spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
For numismatic items, do not clean or polish as it removes the original surface and decreases value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule.
Similar Items
Swiss 1/2 Franc and 1 Franc coins (same design, smaller scale); French Semeuse (Sower) silver coins; various silver bullion rounds.
Interesting Facts
The design of the standing Helvetia has remained virtually unchanged since 1874, making it one of the longest-running active coin designs in history.