Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano
Swissmint produces exclusive limited-edition collector coins under the name “Swiss special coins”. The new four-part silver coin series highlights the diversity and uniqueness of Switzerland’s lakes. As a place of retreat and recreation for people and animals, they are considered the heart of Switzerland.
Switzerland’s lakes in all their diversity
With over 1,500 lakes and many rivers, Switzerland is seen as the water tower of Europe. Lakes are not just key features of the landscape, they also offer valuable habitats for flora and fauna, as well as being popular places for recreation and inspiration for people. With its “Swiss lakes” coin series, Swissmint is paying cultural homage to this unique natural heritage.
The special coins bring our country’s history and memories to life
With the new special coin series “Swiss lakes”, Switzerland’s lakes have been captured in silver. The series will launch with the two silver coins “Lake Maggiore” and “Lake Lugano”. The 20-franc special coins illustrate the beauty of both lakes in silver 999 and have a weight of 20g and a diameter of 33mm. The “Lake Geneva” special coin will be issued next year, with the “Lake Lucerne” coin completing the series in 2027.
Coin Design Details
The obverse of each coin shows a bird’s eye view of the shining, tranquil lake. The landscapes surrounding Lake Maggiore and Lake Lugano are depicted by means of contour lines extending out to the coin’s edge. The name of the lake is written in cursive script above or next to the image, adorning the surrounding Ticino landscape.
On the reverse, all special coins in the new “Swiss lakes” series feature a striking graphic symbolising Switzerland’s role as Europe’s water tower. Around the edge of the coin is the face value of CHF 20, the inscription “CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA”, the minting year 2025 and the mint mark B for Swissmint.
Availability and Pricing
Both coins will be released in a limited issue comprising 7,500 coins in uncirculated quality with an issue price of CHF 30, and 3,500 coins in proof quality with an issue price of CHF 79. They will be available as of 30 October 2025 from 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 special coins in specific qualities 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.