The 20 Franc Vreneli Gold Coin – Swiss Tradition and Collector’s Value
This article was updated for you in April 2026. The Vreneli gold coin is one of the most famous historical gold coins in Europe and represents Swiss precision, tradition, and enduring value. This article has been updated to provide you with a clearer understanding of the history, fineness, motifs, and collector value of the Vreneli gold coin.
The Vreneli gold coin from Switzerland is one of the most famous historical gold coins in Europe and was minted in large quantities between 1897 and 1949. The Swiss Vreneli gold coin is one of the best-known European gold coins and is in demand by both investors and collectors . Besides classic bullion coins such as the South African Krugerrand or the Canadian Maple Leaf, the Vrenelis are very popular because they combine the historical charm of a collector’s coin with the material value of gold.
History of the Vreneli gold coin
The first 20 franc gold coin was minted in 1883 . It is made of a 21.6-karat gold alloy and bears the Swiss coat of arms with an oak branch on the front – a symbol of permanence. The reverse side depicts the personification of Switzerland, a delicate female bust that has captured the hearts of numismatists for over a century.
Over 58 million coins were minted between 1897 and 1949. In addition, there are also 10-franc coins (1911–1922, 2.65 million pieces) and an extremely rare 100-franc issue from 1925 , of which only about 3,800 coins remain.
The Vreneli gold coin from Switzerland is popular with both investors and collectors, as it combines historical significance with high acceptance in the international gold trade.
Technical data and alloy
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Face value : 20 Swiss francs
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Weight : 5.81 grams
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Alloy : 90% gold, 10% copper (to improve hardness)
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Fineness : 0.900
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Place of minting : Federal Mint Bern (now Swissmint), mint mark “B”
The combination of high quality, Swiss precision and historical significance makes the Vreneli a coin that is valued far beyond its pure gold value.
Vreneli as an investment and collector’s item
The special advantage: The Vreneli gold coin is no longer minted and therefore has collector status . Nevertheless, its value often remains close to the current gold price , making it attractive to both newcomers to gold investment and experienced numismatists . Many investors also view them as a safety reserve in times of crisis .
A coin with many names
The design of the Vreneli is by Fritz Ulysses Landry (1895) . Françoise Anglie was probably used as the model.
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Helvetia : because of the inscription on the front – the national personification of Switzerland
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Vreneli : derived from “Verena”, also a female figure in Swiss symbolism
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Swiss Miss : colloquial term in international trade
Particularly interesting are the years 1945–1947 , which, in addition to the mint mark “B”, also bear an “L” – a reference to “lingot” (= ingot).
Anniversary Edition 2022 – Homage to the 10-Franc Vreneli
For the 100th To mark the anniversary of the last 10-franc coin minted, Swissmint released a 50-franc gold coin in 2022.
Technical data of the 50-franc anniversary coin:
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Alloy : Au 900
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Weight : 11.29 g
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Diameter : 25 mm
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Edition : max. 5,000 pieces
The design was created by Remo Mascherini and shows the profile of Helvetia in a stylized “100”.
Swissmint – Guardian of Tradition
Today’s Swissmint (until 1998: Federal Mint) has been minting coins in Bern since 1853. In addition to circulating coins, it also produces commemorative and collector coins of the highest quality. The mint mark “B” for Bern remains a seal of quality in Swiss numismatics to this day.
Conclusion: Why buy a Vreneli?
The 20 franc Vreneli gold coin combines history, beauty and lasting value . She is:
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a historical investment coin that is no longer minted
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a popular collector’s item with high demand
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a secure store of value in times of global uncertainty
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a symbol of Swiss stability and precision
Whether as investment gold or as a valuable collector’s item – the Vreneli remains one of the most important European gold coins .
Summary – 5 important facts about the Vreneli gold coin
The Vreneli gold coin from Switzerland is one of the most important classic gold coins in Europe. Key points at a glance:
- The Vreneli gold coin was minted from 1897 to 1949 and is the most famous gold coin of Switzerland.
- The 20-franc version is the most widespread and was issued in very high quantities.
- The coin is made of 900 gold and combines stability with classic minting.
- The motif depicts Helvetia and is symbolic of Switzerland.
- Vreneli coins are traded worldwide and combine investment gold with historical collector value.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Vreneli gold coin
What is the Swiss Vreneli gold coin?
The Vreneli is a historical gold coin with a face value of 20 Swiss francs. It was minted in over 58 million copies between 1897 and 1949 and is today both a collector’s item and an investment coin.
How much gold does a 20 franc Vreneli contain?
One Vreneli contains 5.81 grams of gold, with a fineness of 900/1000, i.e. 90% pure gold and 10% copper.
Why is the Vreneli gold coin so popular?
Its popularity stems from its history, Swiss precision, and its status as a collector’s item. Furthermore, their market value is often close to the current gold price, making them an attractive mix of investment and collector coin.
Are there any rare Vreneli editions?
Yes. Particularly sought-after are the 100-franc Vrenelis from 1925 (only 5,000 minted, approx. 3,800 preserved) as well as the coins with the additional “L” (lingot) from 1945–1947.
Where can you buy Vreneli gold coins?
Genuine Vrenelis are available from reputable coin dealers, where verified quality, secure delivery , and international shipping options are guaranteed.
About the author: Larissa Wasserthal
Larissa Wasserthal is a specialist author at Wasserthal RareCoin.Store, focusing on historical and modern gold coins. Her articles combine numismatic expertise with a keen eye for provenance, minting quality, market dynamics, and collector value.
