1978 10 Rappen Appraisal

1978 Swiss 10 Rappen Coin

This is a 1978 circulation strike Swiss 10 Rappen coin, officially known as the Dix Rappen or Zehnrappen. The coin is composed of a copper-nickel alloy, giving it a bright silvery-metallic appearance. The obverse features the right-facing profile of Libertas, the personification of liberty, adorned with a tiara inscribed with the word 'LIBERTAS'. Encircling the bust is the Latin legend 'CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA', which refers to the Swiss Confederation, and the date '1978' flanked by two stars at the bottom. The coin features a denticulated border along the rim. In terms of condition, the coin shows signs of moderate wear consistent with circulation; there are visible surface scratches, small bag marks, and a slight flattening of the high points on Libertas's hair and tiara. The luster appears somewhat muted due to handling and light oxidation. This design, created by Karl Schwenzer, has remained remarkably consistent since its introduction in the late 19th century, making it one of the longest-running coin designs in world numismatic history. The strike appears centered, and there are no immediate signs of major structural damage like bending or deep gouges, though a minor rim nick is visible at the 1 o'clock position.