1973 20 Rappen Appraisal

1973 Swiss 20 Rappen Coin

This is a 20 Rappen circulation coin from Switzerland, dated 1973. The obverse features the right-facing profile of Libertas, representing the Swiss nation, wearing a tiara inscribed with the word 'LIBERTAS'. The portrait is surrounded by the Latin inscription 'CONFEDERATIO HELVETICA' and the minting year at the bottom, flanked by two stars. The coin is struck in a copper-nickel alloy, giving it a bright, silver-colored appearance. Based on standard specifications for this issue, it measures approximately 21 mm in diameter with a weight of 4 grams and features a smooth edge. The quality of the strike shows clear relief in the braided hair and the details of the tiara. Regarding condition, the coin displays moderate signs of circulation wear, including minor surface contact marks, faint scratches, and a slight darkening of the metal commensurate with its age of over 50 years. There are no signs of heavy corrosion or significant rim damage visible. This design, created by Karl Schwenzer, has been used consistently in Switzerland since 1881, representing one of the world's longest-running unchanged coin designs, which speaks to its enduring craftsmanship and classic style.