Switzerland 5 Francs 1939, Herdsman

Common

A silver 5 franc coin from the Swiss Confederation, showing an Alpine herdsman, struck in Bern.

Country / Issuer: Switzerland
Date: 1938–1939
Category: Ancient coinage
Inventory reference: CH-5F-1939-001

About this object

This 5 franc silver coin belongs to the long-running “Herdsman” series. The obverse shows the head of an Alpine herdsman, a national symbol of rural Swiss identity. The lettered edge carries the national motto. It was struck in .835 silver and circulated widely in Switzerland.

Historical context

The Herdsman 5 franc was introduced in 1922 and struck until 1969. The 1939 issue was minted as Europe moved toward war and Switzerland mobilised its army. Swiss silver coinage was valued for its stability during this period.

Held in a private collection. Available for scholarly consultation by appointment.

Specifications

Switzerland 5 Francs 1939, Herdsman

Common

Country / Issuer: Switzerland
Date: 1938–1939
Category: Ancient coinage
Rarity: Common
Inventory reference: CH-5F-1939-001
Denomination: 5 Francs
Mint: Bern (Swiss Federal Mint)
Mint mark: B
Composition: Silver .835
Weight: 15 g
Diameter: 31.45 mm
Edge: “DOMINUS PROVIDEBIT”
Orientation: Medal alignment (↑↓)
Obverse: Head of an Alpine herdsman facing left, surrounded by stars, with “HELVETIA”
Reverse: Denomination “5 FRANKEN” with the date, within a wreath
Catalog references: KM# 40, HMZ 2-1197