Fribourg Sol

The Fribourg Sol was minted using copper often recycled from old pots and scrap metal, a practical necessity in an era when resources were scarce.

That approach kept costs down, but it also meant the coins varied wildly in quality, with some turning up lopsided or pitted. Production ran from 1700 to 1798 in Fribourg, under the canton's authority, though exact mintage figures are murky—records from that period were spotty at best.

Design-wise, these bronze pieces typically featured the Fribourg coat of arms on one side, including a grapevine and keys, symbols tied to the city's history. The reverse might show a simple denomination or date, struck with the kind of blunt force that left clear strikes but little flair.

Weights ranged from about 2 to 5 grams, depending on the year, but don't ask me for precise figures; variations were common, and no two seem identical.

Counterfeits popped up regularly, which isn't surprising given the coin's utility in daily transactions.

In a way, it's like finding an old shoe that still fits.