Latest special coin to be issued: “Lake Geneva” silver coin expands coin series
Bern, 16.03.2026 — With its new four-part coin series, “Swiss lakes”, Swissmint is portraying the diversity of Switzerland's lakes. The “Lake Geneva” special coin will add a third coin to the series on 19 March 2026.
Swissmint produces exclusive limited-edition collector coins under the name “Swiss special coins”. The launch of the third coin in the four-part silver coin series celebrates the diversity and uniqueness of Switzerland's lakes.
Switzerland's lakes in all their diversity
With around 1,500 lakes and a dense network of rivers, Switzerland is seen as an important water reservoir in the heart of Europe. Its lakes not only shape the landscape, but also serve as habitats for numerous animal and plant species. At the same time, they are places of tranquillity, leisure and inspiration. With the “Swiss Lakes” coin series, Swissmint is paying tribute to this extraordinary natural and cultural heritage, and consciously highlighting its importance. The series is set to be completed in 2027 with the “Lake Lucerne” special coin.
The special coins bring our country's history and memories to life
The Lake Geneva is immortalised in silver with the new silver coin issued as part of the special coin series. The 20-franc special coin depicts the lake and its surroundings in pure 999 silver alloy and weighs 20g with a diameter of 33mm, just like its predecessors, the “Lago Maggiore” and “Lago di Lugano” coins.
The obverse features a bird's-eye view of Switzerland's largest lake. The landscapes surrounding the lake appear as contour lines running towards the edge of the coin. The name of the lake appears in curved lettering next to the image and blends harmoniously into the landscapes of the cantons of Geneva, Vaud and Valais, as well as France.
The reverse of all special coins in the four-part “Swiss Lakes” series features a striking graphic design that highlights Switzerland's importance as a central water reservoir in Europe. The edge of the coin bears the face value of CHF 20, the inscription “CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA”, the year of minting 2026 and the mint mark “B” as the mark of Swissmint.
The special coin will be released in a limited issue of 8,000 uncirculated coins with an issue price of CHF 65, and 3,500 coins in proof quality with an issue price of CHF 110*. It will be available from 19 March 2026 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.
Federal Mint Swissmint
The Federal Mint Swissmint produces the country's coins for use in everyday payment transactions. The Federal Mint also regularly issues commemorative coins and coinage of a higher standard 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.
Factsheet
*Since 2025, the price of silver has risen significantly – leading to higher production costs and making a price adjustment for silver coins necessary.