1982 Swiss Vreneli Helvetia Gold Coin (20 Francs Restrike/Reproduction)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion Type) · Yellow Gold (Classic warm tone with standard copper-silver alloy)
Purity: Likely 21.6K (90.0% pure gold), conforming to the Swiss 20 Franc standard of 0.900 fineness.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion Type)
Purity
Likely 21.6K (90.0% pure gold), conforming to the Swiss 20 Franc standard of 0.900 fineness.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic warm tone with standard copper-silver alloy)
Weight
Standard weight for this type is 6.45 grams (0.1867 troy oz AGW).
Description
This coin features the iconic left-facing profile of Libertas (Helvetia) with braided hair and a tiara inscribed with 'Libertas'. This specific 1982 date is notable as standard 20 Franc Vreneli circulation ended in 1949, making this a modern commemorative restrike or bullion unit favored by collectors for its historical design and high gold purity.
Key Features
Portrait of Helvetia, Swiss Alps backdrop style, distinctive 'Confederatio Helvetica' lettering, and crisp modern strike quality.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow gold with a proof-like or high-luster finish; the 1982 date suggests a modern commemorative or restrike production with sharper, mirror-like fields compared to original circulation pieces.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA', 'LIBERTAS' on tiara, date '1982'. Mint mark 'B' (Bern) normally found on reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 21 mm and thickness of approximately 1.25 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; pure metallic strike.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled) for security against clipping or shaving of the metal.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; single coin unit with vertical reeded edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck with high-relief details on the hair braids and high-clarity sans-serif typography.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the 'LIBERTAS' text on the headband, uniform color, and precise reeding on the edges. Note: A 1982 date on a Vreneli design is a modern issue; weight verification is essential to ensure it is not a brass-core counterfeit.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Bern Mint (Swissmint) or authorized private restrike.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern (1982) based on the original 1897-1949 design.
Age Estimate
Dated 1982; approximately 42 years old.
Cultural Significance
Helvetia is the female national personification of Switzerland, representing the confederation's values of liberty, peace, and neutrality.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Visible surface marks and minor hairlines consistent with handling; no major dents or rim dings. Grade likely AU-58 or MS-60.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued by gold spot price plus a small premium (3-8%). Current market value is approximately 110-115% of the live gold melt value for this weight.
Care & Maintenance
Handle by the edges only to avoid skin oil transfer. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or archival flip. Do not clean or polish as this removes numismatic value.
Similar Items
10 Franc Vreneli (smaller), French 20 Franc Rooster/Marianne (comparable French standard), British Sovereign (higher purity/weight).
Interesting Facts
The 'Vreneli' name is a diminutive of 'Verena,' a personification of Switzerland. Original coins are among the most popular gold bullion coins in Europe.