Swissmint produces exclusive limited-edition collector coins under the name "Swiss special coins". The 20-franc silver coin celebrates the tradition of St. Nicholas, who is celebrated every year on 6 December with a procession, and is therefore a very special gift for St. Nicholas Day, or Christmas.

The special coins bring our country's history and memories to life

On 6 December, Switzerland is awash with pre-Christmas atmosphere when festive Samichlaus processions fill the streets in many places, keeping the tradition alive. One of the most famous processions takes place in Fribourg (FR): every year, up to 30,000 people follow St. Nicholas on his horse, accompanied by his helper and a host of torch-bearers, brass bands and choirs, through the old town's atmospherically lit streets. They are filled with the glow of lights, music and festive sounds. The procession traditionally ends in front of St. Nicholas Cathedral, where people gather to listen to the words of St. Nicholas, who looks back over the past year and calls for compassion and community.

The obverse of the 20g silver 999 alloy special coin, which is alloyed with 999 silver, depicts St. Nicholas in red (only in proof quality), while the reverse shows St. Nicholas with a child under a starry sky. In his traditional bishop's robe, with crosier and mitre, a magical and solemn image is created that reflects the significance of St. Nicholas and the festive period. The coin finishes with the inscription "CONFOEDERATIO HELEVTIA 2024" on the reverse and the value of CHF 20.

"The festive period and especially Samichlaus day are a time of togetherness and magic for young and old in Switzerland. Our aim with this coin is to create our own little Christmas miracle and put a smile on people's faces," says Jan Niklas Betz, Deputy General Manager and Head of Marketing/Sales at Swissmint.

A total of 7,500 coins will be issued in uncirculated quality, 5,800 in proof quality and 200 in proof quality with a numbered artist's certificate. They will be available from 8am on Wednesday 27 November 2024, from Swissmint's official online shop and from selected coin dealers and banks.

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 circulation and special coins of particular quality 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.

Latest special coin to be issued: new St. Nicholas silver coin makes a very special gift