New special coin issue: series commemorating Swiss aviation

Swissmint produces exclusive limited-edition collector coins under the name “Swiss special coins”. This new silver coin series commemorates the history of Swiss aviation, and shows advances in modern aviation technology. The three coins tell the story of aviation, starting with the first hot-air balloons. What we now think of as commonplace was once seen as a daring adventure: this coin series honours the pioneering work in aviation and reminds us that a century of courage, vision and technical prowess was needed to make the dream of flying a reality.

The skies were first conquered with hot-air balloons
Aviation in Switzerland began with pioneering balloonists at the end of the 19th century. In 1897, the Federal Council decided to set up a Swiss airship company, ten years after military airships had become established in Europe. Before that, pioneers like Eduard Spelterini and the Piccard brothers had made the first balloon test flights for the army. With the outbreak of the First World War and the development of modern air forces, the importance of balloons waned; in 1937, the balloon corps was dissolved.

The special coins bring our country's history and memories to life
The new special coin series turns the spotlight onto an important chapter in Swiss national history, and immortalises it in silver. The series begins with the 20-franc coin “Pioneers of Swiss aviation”, which shows the early days when hot-air ballons first started to conquer the skies. It is made of 999 silver, weighs 20g and has a diameter of 33mm.

The obverse shows hot-air balloons with different shapes and baskets, tracing the technical developments of the time. But these illustrations show not only technological advances, but also the passion of early Swiss aviation pioneers. The balloons rise into the air against the backdrop of the Saanenland and the Swiss mountains Gummfluh, La Videmanette and Rüeblihorn. The obverse also carries the inscription in German “Pioniere der Schweizer Luftfahrt”.

A propeller blade adorns the reverse, depicting advances in technology up to the present day. It bears the inscription “CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA 2025” around the edge. The design is completed by the nominal value of 20 francs and the letter “B” for Bern.

The coin will be released in a limited issue comprising 7,500 coins in uncirculated quality with an issue price of CHF 25, and 3,500 coins in proof quality with an issue price of CHF 79. It will be available from 18 September 2025 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.


Contact:
Eidgenössische Münzstätte Swissmint
info@swissmint.ch

--- END press release New special coin issue: series commemorating Swiss aviation ---

  Eidgenössische Münzstätte Swissmint (company entry)

  Ausgabe der neuesten Sondermünze: Münzserie ehrt die Schweizer Luftfahrt (news article in german on swiss-press.com)