20 Swiss Francs Helvetia Gold Coin | 1883-1896

20 Swiss Francs Helvetia Gold Coin | 1883-1896

The 20 Swiss Francs Helvetia was struck at the Bern Mint from 1883 to 1896, holding 5.8064 g of fine gold at .900 fineness. It represents Switzerland's first gold series after joining the Latin Monetary Union — rarer than the later Vreneli and increasingly sought-after by European collectors.

Specifications

• Country: Switzerland
• Mint: Bern Mint (Eidgenossische Munzstatte)
• Period: 1883-1896
• Denomination: 20 Francs
• Gold fineness: .900 (900/1000)
• Fine gold weight: 5.8064 g | Total: 6.45 g
• Diameter: 21 mm
• Obverse: Helvetia profile with alpine scenery | Reverse: Swiss cross, denomination, date

About the Helvetia Gold Coin

The Helvetia was Switzerland's first gold franc after joining the Latin Monetary Union in 1865. The obverse bears the classical profile of Helvetia — the female personification of Switzerland — set against an alpine landscape. Struck only from 1883 to 1896, it is rarer than the Vreneli series (1897-1949) and carries a modest collector premium. As a Latin Monetary Union coin, it is fully interchangeable with French and Italian gold francs and is VAT-exempt across the EU. See the full gold coin range at GoldInvest24.

Why Buy from GoldInvest24

• Secure insured shipping across Europe, full contents insurance included
• VAT-exempt gold coins under EU Council Directive 98/80/EC
• Expert numismatic team — authentic products, transparent pricing
• Competitive buyback: we repurchase coins at spot-referenced prices

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much fine gold does the Helvetia contain? A: Each coin contains 5.8064 g of fine gold at .900 fineness, total weight 6.45 g, diameter 21 mm.

Q: What is the difference between the Helvetia and the Vreneli? A: The Helvetia (1883-1896) is the earlier, rarer Swiss series depicting a classical Helvetia profile. The Vreneli (1897-1949) replaced it with a more modern portrait and was struck in much higher quantities.

Q: Is the Helvetia VAT-exempt? A: Yes. As a qualifying bullion gold coin under EU Council Directive 98/80/EC, it is VAT-exempt across all EU member states.

Q: How liquid is the Helvetia on the European secondary market? A: Latin Monetary Union coins are among the most liquid gold coins in Europe, accepted at every major bullion dealer with pricing referenced to the gold spot price.