Swissmint Honors Scientific Innovation

Swissmint has released a 20-franc silver coin that celebrates scientific progress in Switzerland. The .999-fine silver coin recognizes the Large Hadron Collider at CERN (the European Laboratory for Particle Physics). On the obverse, two accelerated particles collide with spirals emanating from the center. The legend UNIVERSE OF PARTICLES and CERN is below. The reverse features a cross-section of the particle accelerator in the center, and the denomination and CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA 2025 appear on the rim. The 33mm coin has a mintage of 7,500 uncirculated and 3,500 proof versions.

The Large Hadron Collider is a 27-kilometer-long ring accelerator. The most powerful research tool of its kind, it accelerates protons to the speed of light to make them collide, and researchers then analyze the collisions to further understand how the universe works. “CERN is one of the most famous locations for conducting groundbreaking particle research,” says Jans Niklas Betz, the deputy general manager and head of marketing/sales at Swissmint. “The special coin honors this contribution to science and highlights the fascinating nature of research.” 

The Federal Mint Swissmint produces high-quality franc coins on behalf of the Swiss Confederation. Since 1936, Swissmint has created commemorative coins to honor important historical and cultural events and prominent figures.

A version of this article appears in the May 2025 issue of The Numismatist (money.org).