Expert: Brad Swain - 1/5/2010

Question
Hi Brad,
Can you please tell me the worth of a 1913 1 Fr. Helvetia in remarkably good shape for being so old.

Thanks, Edith

Answer
Hi Edith, Helvetia is the Latin name the Romans gave the Switzerland area over 2000 years ago. The Swiss achieved an independent confederation of cantons in 1291.
There were 1.2 million of these Swiss 1 Franc coins minted that year in Bern (B). This coin should weigh 5.0 grams and would contain .1342 of an ounce of silver. Collector value may be worth about $2.50 with heavy wear to around $3.50 with moderate wear to maybe $6 with light wear to perhaps $70 if uncirculated (no wear).
You might try Ebay.com for similar pieces for comparison.
You might also try a library for a copy of the Standard Catalog of World Coins for pictures, values and lots more interesting info.
Brad