Swiss 20 Rappen Coin 1995 (Cupro-Nickel, Non-Gold)
Coin (Circulating Currency) · None (Metallic appearance resembling white gold or silver due to nickel content).
Purity: 0% (Non-precious alloy). This is a Cupro-Nickel coin composed of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel.
Type
Coin (Circulating Currency)
Purity
0% (Non-precious alloy). This is a Cupro-Nickel coin composed of 75% Copper and 25% Nickel.
Gold Type
None (Metallic appearance resembling white gold or silver due to nickel content).
Weight
4.00 grams (Standard specification for a Swiss 20 Rappen coin).
Description
A standard circulating Swiss 20 Rappen coin. While its yellowish lighting in the photograph may suggest a gold hue to the untrained eye, this is a base-metal coin used in daily Swiss commerce featuring the allegorical head of Liberty.
Key Features
Libertas portrait, 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA' Latin legend, 1995 strike date, beaded border rim.
Color & Finish
Silver-white/Greyish metallic luster with a matte circulated finish; exhibits surface grime and light oxidation/toning.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse inscription 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA', Date '1995', Mint mark 'B' (Bern Mint) typically on the reverse (unseen).
Dimensions Estimate
21.05 mm in diameter, 1.65 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin features the draped bust of Libertas wearing a tiara, facing right.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Circulating coinage); the edge is smooth/plain.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; the coin has a rounded, smooth edge characteristic of this denomination.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced via high-pressure industrial minting presses. Precision is high for currency but lacks the hand-finished detail of proof gold bullion.
Authentication Indicators
The design matches standard 1995 Swiss coinage; however, if this item were intended to be gold, the 1995 date and Libertas design would be a red flag as gold Vreneli coins use different motifs and dates.
Origin & Maker
Switzerland, struck at the Swissmint in Bern (identified by the B mint mark on reverse).
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century). This design has been used with minimal changes since 1881.
Age Estimate
Dated 1995; 29 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents Swiss neutrality and stability; Libertas is a symbol of the freedom and independence of the Swiss Confederation.
Condition Notes
Circulated (Very Good to Fine). Visible surface scratches, significant dirt/patina accumulation in the recesses of the lettering, and moderate wear on the high points of the hair.
Value Estimate
Face value: 0.20 CHF (approx. $0.23 USD). No gold melt value. Collector value is negligible in this circulated condition.
Care & Maintenance
For circulating coins, minimal care is needed. Do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value; store in a dry environment.
Similar Items
Swiss 10 Rappen (smaller), Swiss 1/2 Franc (Silver/Cupro-nickel), 20 Francs Gold Vreneli (The true gold equivalent featuring a different portrait).
Interesting Facts
The 20 Rappen design has remained virtually unchanged since the 19th century, making it one of the oldest continuously used coin designs in the world.