Obverse

Reverse

1/2 Franc (50 Rappen)

Swiss 1/2 Franc

Switzerland · 1969

A silver-colored Swiss coin featuring standing Helvetia holding a spear and shield on the obverse, and the denomination inside a wreath on the reverse.

Country: Switzerland
Year: 1969
Denomination: 1/2 Franc (50 Rappen)
Metal: Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

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Overview

A silver-colored Swiss coin featuring standing Helvetia holding a spear and shield on the obverse, and the denomination inside a wreath on the reverse.

Historical significance

Switzerland maintained a stable currency throughout the 20th century, utilizing designs symbolizing national unity and neutrality (Helvetia). Copper-nickel composition was adopted for the half-franc starting in 1968 due to rising silver prices.

Obverse (front)

Standing figure of Helvetia facing right, wearing a robe, holding a spear in her right hand and resting her left arm on a shield bearing the Swiss cross. Surrounded by 22 stars representing the cantons, with the word 'HELVETIA' at the bottom.

Reverse (back)

Denomination '1/2 Fr.' centered above the year '1969', enclosed within an open wreath composed of oak and gentian leaves tied with a ribbon at the bottom.

Estimated value

$1.00 - $3.00 in circulated condition, up to $10 in Uncirculated (Mint State)

What drives this coin's value

Condition/grade and overall eye appeal. Common date 1969 coins in circulated grades mostly trade near their metal value or as low-cost collector fillers.

Grade assessment

Extremely Fine (XF) to About Uncirculated (AU) with light wear on the highest points of Helvetia's drapery.

Mintage & rarity

Common; millions minted annually.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check weight, dimensions, and use a magnet (copper-nickel is non-magnetic or very weakly magnetic depending on exact alloy, but general dimensions and reeding should match standard Swiss specs).

Notable varieties & errors

No major high-value errors or rare varieties for the 1969 1/2 franc issue; look mainly for striking anomalies or pristine mint state examples.

Similar coins

Swiss 1 Franc and 2 Franc coins of the same design series.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using clean cotton gloves if possible. Store in a cool, dry place within inert holders like 2x2 flips or mylar capsules. Never clean the coin, as harsh cleaning destroys its numismatic value.

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