Published on 3 August 2026

50-franc gold special coin “120 Years of the Swissmint building” 2026 | Swissmint

On 17 September 2026, Swissmint will launch the new 50-franc gold coin “120 Years of the Swissmint building”. This special coin pays tribute to the historic headquarters of the Federal Mint and showcases its distinctive architecture in great detail.

For 120 years, the Swissmint building has embodied the fusion of history, craftsmanship and Swiss coinage. With this special coin, this iconic industrial building becomes the subject of the coin itself, and its architectural features are highlighted on a very small surface.

A classic federal building in the Kirchenfeld district of Bern

The Swissmint building was constructed between 1903 and 1906 according to plans by the Bernese architect Theodor Gohl. With its Neo-Renaissance design, it is situated in the Kirchenfeld district.

With its light red brick structure, cornices and decorative elements in natural stone, this building is a typical example of a prestigious industrial building from the early 20th century. Its architecture combines the functional requirements of a mint with the official and imposing appearance of a classic federal building.

In May 1906, the new mint opened its doors. On 2 July of the same year, the entire Federal Council visited the building and thus officially took possession of it. Ever since, Swiss coins have been minted in this historic venue.

The obverse: a miniature of the Swissmint façade

On the effigy’s surface, measuring just 4.35 cm², the façade is depicted in all its architectural splendour. In the centre, one can make out the imposing entrance portal, the half-columns and pilasters of the central front section, as well as the segmental arch crowning the heraldic cartouche adorned with the Swiss cross. To the left and right of the main entrance, one can also recognise the two relief medallions by the sculptor Giuseppe Chiattone. Various matte finishes are used to suggest the different building materials of the façade. These include Saint-Triphon marble, Bernese sandstone, klinker and sandstone from St. Margrethen. Thus, the design echoes not only the shapes but also the diversity of materials used in the historic building depicted on the coin.

The reverse: a detail of the building’s interior

The reverse features an architectural element from inside Swissmint. In the centre is a coat of arms bearing the Swiss cross, the design of which is inspired by the mosaic floor at the foot of the main staircase. Around the edge of the coin is the face value of CHF 50, the inscription “CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA”, the minting year 2026 and the mint mark “B” for Swissmint.

The coin will be released in a limited issue comprising 4,000 coins in proof quality in presentation case.

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