Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins are gold bullion coins that were minted by the Swiss government between 1897 and 1935. These coins have a gold content of 0.1867 troy ounces and a fineness of 90%. Which means they contain 90% pure gold and 10% copper. They are also commonly referred to as Swiss Helvetia 20 Francs Coins. That’s because of the image of the Swiss female allegory Helvetia on the coin’s obverse.
The Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins were first minted to replace the previous Swiss 20 francs gold coins that were in circulation. These older coins had a higher gold content. As a result, were often melted down for their gold value rather than used as currency. The Swiss government sought to combat this problem by introducing a new, less valuable 20 franc gold coin that would discourage melting. Today, Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins are popular among both investors and collectors due to their historical significance, gold content, and numismatic value.
Characteristics of Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins:
These coins have a weight of 6.45 grams and a diameter of 21 mm. The coins are composed of 90% gold and 10% copper, giving them a slightly reddish color. The obverse of the coin features the image of the female allegory Helvetia. Also, it has the inscription “HELVETIA” above her and the year of minting below her. The reverse side features the Swiss coat of arms, which includes a shield with a Swiss cross, surrounded by oak leaves and ribbons. Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins were minted between 1897 and 1935. However, there is the exception of the years 1926, 1930, and 1933. It saw no production due to limited demand. The coins were produced at three different mints in Switzerland. Also, each mint had its own mint mark in this period. The mint marks are located on the reverse side of the coin, above the date.
Some years and mint marks of these Swiss coins are rare and more valuable than others. For example, the 1926-B and 1935-B mintages are particularly scarce and command a premium price. The condition of the coin is also an important factor in determining its value. With uncirculated or mint-state coins being the most valuable. Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins are prized for their historical significance. Also, they are popular for their gold content and numismatic value.
Specifications of Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins:
All of the various years of issue for the two series of the Swiss 20 Franc Gold and Vreneli Gold Coins contain almost a fifth of an ounce of pure gold at .1867 ounces.
Their specifications are:
| Mass | 6.4516 grams |
| Diameter | 21.2 mm |
| Thickness | 1.4 mm |
| Content | 0.1867 oz. gold |
| Purity | 90.0% gold |
Historical gold prices and how they affect the value of the coins?
The value of these coins is directly tied to the price of gold. Historically, gold has been a safe-haven asset that retains its value even during times of economic uncertainty. Therefore, when the price of gold rises, so does the value of Swiss Gold Coins. However, it is important to note that the value of these coins is not solely determined by their gold content, but also by their numismatic value.
Comparison with other gold bullion coins in terms of value and popularity:
These coins are not as well-known or as popular as other gold bullion coins. Such as the American Gold Eagle or the Canadian Gold Maple Leaf. However, they do offer a lower premium over the spot price of gold compared to these other coins, making them a more affordable option for investors looking to acquire gold bullion.
Advantages and Disadvantages of investing in Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins:
One advantage of investing in these is their historical significance, which can add to their numismatic value. Additionally, due to their smaller size and lower premium over spot price, they can be a more affordable option for investors who want to acquire gold bullion. However, one disadvantage is that they may not be as liquid as other gold bullion coins, meaning that they may be harder to sell quickly in times of market volatility. Additionally, their value is not solely tied to their gold content. Their numismatic value can be subject to fluctuations based on factors such as rarity and condition.
Rarity and Collectibility of Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins:
Certain years and mint marks of these Swiss coins are considered rarer and more collectible than others. Surely, it can significantly increase their value. For example, the 1926-B and 1935-B mintages are particularly scarce and command a premium price. Other years and mint marks that are sought after by collectors include the 1897-B, 1902-B, 1911-B, and 1927-B.
These Swiss coins are popular among collectors due to their historical significance and unique design. They are also more affordable compared to other gold bullion coins. Making them more accessible to collectors. Additionally, their small size and historical value make them easy to store and display in a collection.
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Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins have sold for significant amounts at auction. For example, in 2021, a 1926-B Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coin sold for over $40,000 at a Heritage Auctions sale. In 2016, a set of 20 Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins, including rare dates such as the 1926-B, sold for over $100,000 at a Stack’s Bowers auction. The rarity and historical significance of specific years and mint marks of these Swiss coins have made them popular among collectors. They have sold for significant amounts at auction.
Conclusion
Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins are an interesting and valuable addition to any investment portfolio or numismatic collection. They offer a combination of gold content and historical significance, making them a unique investment option. While they may not be as well-known or as popular as other gold bullion coins. Their lower premium over the spot price of gold and their historical significance makes them an attractive option for investors and collectors alike.
Additionally, the rarity and collectability of specific years and mint marks make them an interesting and potentially lucrative addition to a numismatic collection. Overall, Swiss Gold 20 Francs Coins are a valuable and collectible piece of Swiss history. We recommend you please visit our Top Gold IRA companies of 2023, to learn more. There, you can find out the best sellers for such gold coins.