New special coin issue: Swissmint's 120-year-old building depicted in gold
Bern, 15.09.2026 — On 17 September 2026, Swissmint will issue the new special coin “120 years of the Swissmint building”, which skilfully showcases the architectural highlights of this federal building in Bern.
Swissmint produces exclusive limited-edition collector coins under the name “Swiss special coins”. Swissmint is celebrating the 120th anniversary of the Swissmint building in style with the new 50-franc gold special coin.
A federal building in the Kirchenfeld district
The Swissmint building was built by Bernese architect Theodor Gohl in the Kirchenfeld district between 1903 and 1906, and is in the Neo-Renaissance style. After the new mint started operations in May 1906, the entire Federal Council visited the mint and officially took ownership of the building on 2 July 1906. It is located on the edge of Bern's museum district, and surprises visitors with a wealth of special architectural features, including the main staircase.
The special coins bring our country's history and memories to life
The new special coin “120 years of the Swissmint building” is made of a .900 gold alloy. This CHF 50 coin weighs 11.29g and has a diameter of 25mm.
The obverse, which has surface area of only 4.35cm2, shows the Swissmint building in all its glory: the imposing entrance gate, the half-columns and pilasters of the central avant-corps, and the crowning segmental arch above the cartouche featuring the Swiss cross. To the left and right of the main entrance, two relief medallions by Giuseppe Chiattone can be seen. The construction materials (St Triphon marble, Bernese sandstone, clinker and St Margarethen sandstone), which were in common use at that time, are depicted through different matt finishes.
The coin's reverse shows a coat of arms with the Swiss cross, echoing a motif in the mosaic floor at the foot of the Swissmint building's main staircase. This staircase is one of the building's architectural highlights which can be discovered on a tour of Swissmint. Around the edge of the reverse is the face value of CHF 50, the inscription “CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA”, the minting year 2026 and the mint mark B for Swissmint. The coin edge bears the incription “DOMINUS PROVIDEBIT”.
The coin is being released in a limited issue of 4,000 in proof quality, priced at CHF 1,265. It will be available from 17 September 2026 in Swissmint's official online shop.
Each special coin is a miniature work of art
The Federal Mint Swissmint produces Swiss franc coins on behalf of the Swiss Confederation. These have been created in the heart of Switzerland since 1855, and in the popular Kirchenfeld district of Bern since 1906. Since 1936, Swissmint has also minted special coins to commemorate important historical and cultural events and to honour prominent figures. Each of these special coins is a miniature work of art in a unique tradition of artistry and craftsmanship.
Federal Mint Swissmint
The Federal Mint Swissmint produces the country's coins for use in everyday payment transactions. It also regularly issues commemorative coins and coinage of a higher standard for the numismatic market. Special coins in bimetal, silver or gold bear an official, state-guaranteed face value and are available in various minting qualities.