Expert: Brad Swain - 4/9/2010

Question
Brad
I came across a coin Helvetia, It is silver in color with a cross and shield on one side and a 5 surrounded by a wreath on the other.
Coin is dated 1850.
Just wondering if its worth anything.
Thanks, Dan.

Answer
Hi Dan, 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 8 million of these billon (low grade silver) 5 rappen coins minted that year. It may have an AB or BB mintmark below the wreath that would affect its value. With no mintmark collector value may be worth about .50 with heavy wear to around $12 with moderate wear to maybe $27 with light wear. If yours has a mintmark let me know.
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