Expert: Brad Swain - 6/3/2010

Question
I have a coin that shows a woman's head with the name Helvetia above it.  On the back it has 10 the year 1914 then F.  Above that is a cross in a sunburst.  On the bottom of the coin is some foliage. I think it is a Swiss 10 franc coin, but I cannot find anything more about it.  It is in excellent condition.  I think it was purchased in Europe in the late 50's or early 60's.  Could you tell me something more about it.

Thank-you,

Alicia

Answer
Hi Alicia, 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 200,000 of these Swiss 10 Franc coins minted that year in Bern (B). This coin should weigh 3.2258 grams and would contain .0933 of an ounce of gold.
Collector value may be worth about $110 with heavy wear to maybe $150 with no wear uncirculated.
Current gold and silver values: http://www.kitco.com/market/ .
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