ObverseImage: Wikimedia Commons · Siren-Com · CC BY-SA 3.0
Swiss 5 Francs 1874
Switzerland
1874
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$59.25
Based on Silver spot price ($81.90/oz) · 90.0% purity · 25g
Updated 1:50 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | Switzerland |
| Years Minted | 1874 |
| Composition | 0.900 silver |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Reeded |
Design
Obverse
The obverse features the Swiss coat of arms with the federal cross and surrounding shields representing the cantons.
Reverse
The reverse displays the denomination '5 FRANCS' along with the year '1874' and decorative elements.
History & Notable Facts
The 1874 Swiss 5 Francs coin was among the first to circulate under the Latin Monetary Union, letting it pass as legal tender in France and Italy without a second glance. That practical alliance cut through the mess of old currencies, streamlining trade across borders.
Weighing in at 25 grams of 0.900 fine silver, it shows a standing Helvetia on one side, her spear and shield evoking the nation's resolve. The other face bears the Swiss cross, plain and unadorned. I’ve turned these over in my hands for decades; the edge reeds wear down predictably from pocket change.
Mintage records? They’re vague, as Swiss archives from that period often are. No dramatic tales here—just a solid coin for everyday folk.
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