1850-A Switzerland ½ Franc — Seated Helvetia — PCGS MS-66 — KM#8 (Plate Coin)

The 1850-A Switzerland ½ Franc marks the introduction of the Swiss federal coinage following the 1848 Constitution. Struck at the Paris Mint (“A”), this issue established the Seated Helvetia design that would define Swiss silver coinage for decades.
This specific example is the plate coin for the series, having been selected to represent the type in reference or registry materials. In addition to its technical quality, the coin displays vibrant and highly distinctive natural toning, setting it apart from typical examples of the issue.

MS-66 indicates a gem Mint State coin with strong original luster and only minimal, inconsequential contact marks.

Technical Specifications

Denomination: ½ Franc
Date & Mint: 1850-A (Paris Mint)
Design: Seated Helvetia
Catalog Number: KM#8
Composition: 83.5% silver (.835 fine)
Weight: 2.50 g
Fine Silver Weight (ASW): 0.0671 troy oz
Diameter: 18.2 mm
Edge: Reeded
Series Years: 1850–1851 (early federal issues)
Mintmark Location: “A” mintmark for Paris