Lausanne 1 Batzen

The Lausanne 1 Batzen was often struck using copper sourced from recycled pots and pans, a practical choice in an era when metal was scarce and repurposing was common.

This coin, minted in Lausanne from the 17th to 18th century, bore the arms of the local bishopric, symbolizing the city's dual role as a religious and administrative center. Sizes varied due to inconsistent planchets, which sometimes led to coins that were more oval than round. Mintage figures remain murky; records from that period were spotty at best, with many lost to time or neglect. What we do know is that these pieces circulated widely in daily trade, reflecting Switzerland's fragmented currency system.

Exact designs evolved over the decades, but most featured a simple cross or shield on the obverse. It's a reminder that not every coin needs to be a masterpiece to tell a story. As for myths, the idea that these were hoarded for their supposed mystical properties is nonsense—people just used them to buy bread.