Worth a mint

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Cases of blanks waiting to be minted Benjamin Zurbriggen

The blanks are ready to be tested Benjamin Zurbriggen

The future coins are readied for polishing Benjamin Zurbriggen

Die stamps Benjamin Zurbriggen

A press for commemorative coins Nenjamin Zurbriggen

In the polishing machine Benjamin Zurbriggen

A die is prepared for the stamping process Benjamin Zurbriggen

Checking the results Benjamin Zurbriggen

A packing machine for coin rolls Benjamin Zurbriggen

Shiny five centime coins at the end of processing Benjamin Zurbriggen

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Putting the stamp of approval on coins

The Swiss Federal Mint’s origins go back to 1848, when the modern Swiss state was founded, and the prerogative of coinage passed from the cantons to the Confederation. The introduction of the Swiss franc, considered one of the world’s strongest currencies, also took place then. Since then, Swissmint, which is based in the capital Bern, has supplied the small change that continues to hold its position as a simple and inexpensive means of payment. (All photos: Benjamin Zurbriggen)