A classic Swiss silver coin, part of the Helvetia Standing series, minted in 1964. This design, created by Antoine Bovy, was in circulation for nearly a century and remains one of the most iconic Swiss coins.
The obverse features a full-length figure of Helvetia, standing while holding a spear in her right hand and supporting a shield with the Swiss Coat of Arms in her left hand. The 22 stars surrounding her represent the 22 cantons of the Swiss Confederation. The reverse displays a wreath of oak and alpine rose branches, encircling the denomination (½ Franc), the year of issue, and the mintmark.
Specifications:
🔹 Country: Switzerland
🔹 Ruling Authority: Federal State (1848-present)
🔹 Year of Issue: 1964
🔹 Denomination: ½ Franc (0.50 CHF)
🔹 Composition: Silver (.835)
🔹 Weight: 2.5 g
🔹 Diameter: 18.2 mm
🔹 Thickness: 1.28 mm
🔹 Shape: Round
🔹 Edge: Reeded
🔹 Technique: Milled
🔹 Orientation: Coin alignment
🔹 Engraver: Antoine Bovy
🔹 Designer: Albert Walch
🔹 Mint: Bern, Switzerland
This 1964-dated ½ Franc was part of the last years of silver coinage before Switzerland transitioned to a copper-nickel alloy due to the rising price of silver. It was demonetized on April 1, 1971, but remains a highly sought-after collectible.
