While we often talk instability, secession, or the collapse of a government or reign in this blog series, the simplicity of the next coin and its background is a welcome breath of fresh air. Authors of Whitman Publishing’s 100 Greatest Modern World Coins, Charles Morgan and Hubert Walker, have us look at a rarity in which the design and strike are at the forefront regardless of its inability to meet circulation guidelines. Let us get into more detail.
#30 – Switzerland 1925-B Gold 100 Francs, Specimen
In 1925, after Switzerland introduced into circulation a 100-franc gold coin, the Swiss National Bank was unable to distribute the entire 5,000 mintage. As a result, around 1,200 coins melted down. Despite its fall before its rise, the coin is held to high esteem by collectors due in large part to its design. Used on smaller denominations since 1897, engraver Fritz Ulisse Landry’s design looked even better on a larger coin.
The head of Helvetia as a young woman is depicted on the obverse. As the personification of Switzerland, she is set against the background of the Swiss Alps. Her facial features and hair are detailed and considered elegant, according to Morgan and Walker. The reverse showcases the Swiss cross with the denomination of 100 FR, 1925, and a B mintmark inscribed. A floral arrangement sits below the year with small beads encircling the entirety of the design.
Only the wealthiest and connected collectors have a chance at owning one of these few surviving pieces in circulation strikes. With that said, a curious specimen showed up in a European auction in recent years. That coin ended up selling at a Heritage auction for US$58,750. That coin reportedly had the appearance of a Proof and was officially certified by NGC in SP64.