Swiss 20 Francs Vreneli Gold Coin (1935-L Re-strike/Late 1940s Issue Type)
Gold Bullion Coin / Numismatic Specimen · Yellow Gold with a slight coppery hue common to historic European sovereign coinage
Purity: 90% Gold (21.6K), 10% Copper alloy; Net Gold Weight 5.806 grams (0.1867 troy oz)
Type
Gold Bullion Coin / Numismatic Specimen
Purity
90% Gold (21.6K), 10% Copper alloy; Net Gold Weight 5.806 grams (0.1867 troy oz)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight coppery hue common to historic European sovereign coinage
Weight
6.45 grams gross weight; 0.1867 troy oz pure gold content
Description
An iconic piece of European numismatics, the Swiss Vreneli 20 Francs features 'Helvetia', the female personification of Switzerland, with braided hair and a garland of edelweiss flowers against a mountain backdrop. It is one of the most widely traded gold bullion coins in history, combining aesthetic beauty with reliable purity.
Key Features
Portrait of Helvetia, 'LIBERTAS' on diadem, the 22 Cantonal stars on the edge, and the distinct 'B' mint mark
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with warm orange-red undertones; frost-like satin finish on the bust with mirror-like fields on high-grade specimens
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA', '1935' (Note: the 1935-L date indicates a massive re-strike series produced in 1945-1949); Reverse: '20 FR', Swiss cross, and 'B' mint mark (Bern)
Dimensions Estimate
21.0 mm diameter, 1.25 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; standard circulation and bullion strike
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting; no mechanical closure
Chain & Links
Standard mill-finished reeded edge with 22 stars in relief symbolizing the Swiss Cantons
Craftsmanship Details
High-pressure die strike; intricate detail in the edelweiss garland and braided hair typical of late 19th-century Swiss precision
Authentication Indicators
The 'L' mark before the date (on authentic restrikes), precise weight of 6.45g, and specific reed count on the edge
Origin & Maker
Switzerland; Swiss Federal Mint (Bern Mint)
Era & Period
Late 19th/Early 20th Century Design; Art Nouveau elements (originally designed by Fritz Ulysse Landry in 1895)
Age Estimate
Late 1940s production (specifically 1945-1949) bearing the 1935-L commemorative date
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Swiss neutrality, wealth, and stability; often given as traditional christening or wedding gifts in Europe.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Extremely Fine; visible surface bag marks and slight wear on Helvetia's hair braids and cheekbone
Value Estimate
Approximately $450 - $550 USD (Fluctuates based on gold spot price + 3-8% dealer premium)
Care & Maintenance
Store in non-PVC flips or capsules; avoid cleaning or polishing which significantly reduces numismatic premium
Similar Items
French 20 Francs 'Marianne/Rooster', British Sovereign, US $5 Liberty Head, Austrian 20 Ducats
Interesting Facts
Over 20 million of the 1935-L restrikes were minted to provide post-WWII liquidity and gold reserves, making them far more common than original 1930s issues.