You might think all the oldest coins are locked away in museums, but that’s not quite the case! One coin, minted over a century ago, is still being used as legal tender today—Switzerland’s 10 centimes coin. This coin, with a design dating back to 1879, holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest coin design still in circulation.
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A Swiss Icon with History to Spare
Switzerland is well-known for its secretive banks, scenic landscapes, and chocolate, but it also has a fascinating history with its currency. The 10 centimes coin has been part of Swiss currency for over 140 years, and while it’s not worth much (around 10 cents in American currency), its historical value is significant.
The design, which hasn’t changed since its creation, tells a story of Switzerland’s long journey toward becoming the unified, neutral, and prosperous country it is today.
The Coin’s Timeless Design
The design of the Swiss 10 centimes coin was created by Karl Schwenzer in 1879. Schwenzer was a seasoned coin artist who had previously designed coins for the German Kingdom of Württemberg. For Switzerland, he crafted a design that features the head of Liberty on one side, symbolizing freedom, a central value for the Swiss people.
Liberty, with her braided hair and diadem, represents the Roman goddess of freedom, Libertas, who appears on most Swiss coins.
On the reverse side, the coin shows the number “10” framed by two oak branches tied together at the base with a ribbon. Oak leaves symbolize strength, an appropriate choice for a country that has stood firm throughout the ages, maintaining its independence and neutrality.
Below the oak branches, there’s a tiny “B,” marking the coin’s birthplace in Bern, Switzerland’s capital and home to its official mint, Swiss mint.
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Materials Built to Last
While most people focus on the design, the material of the 10 centimes coin is just as interesting. The coin was made from pure nickel between 1932 and 1939 but has mostly been made from cupronickel—a mix of copper and nickel—because it resists corrosion and has a high melting point.
This durable combination helps the coin last for decades, standing the test of time just like Switzerland itself.
The Swiss Identity
Switzerland is famous for its scenic mountains, lakes, and commitment to neutrality in international affairs. It’s a country that has managed to stay independent and peaceful while the rest of Europe has seen many wars and changes.
Switzerland’s diverse population speaks four official languages—French, German, Italian, and Romansh—reflecting its complex history and cultural diversity.
The coin is also a symbol of the country’s unification. In 1850, Switzerland decided to adopt a single national currency, a significant step toward uniting its 26 cantons (states). Before this, each canton had its own system.
The creation of the 10 centimes coin by the Federal Mint in 1879 was part of the country’s effort to standardize and modernize its economy. The design of the coin hasn’t changed since then, making it a timeless piece of Swiss heritage.
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The Significance of the 10 Centimes Coin Today
Even though the 10 centimes coin won’t buy you much more than a small snack in modern Switzerland, its value goes beyond its purchasing power. The coin stands as a reminder of Switzerland’s stability, unity, and rich cultural history. It represents the evolution of Switzerland from a collection of small, self-governing states to the unified and influential country we know today.
Plus, holding a coin that has stayed in circulation for over 140 years is like carrying a small piece of history in your pocket!
So next time you’re in Switzerland and get a 10 centimes coin in your change, take a moment to appreciate the fact that you’re holding the world’s oldest coin design still in use today.