Swiss Franc
The Swiss franc is the global gold standard of banknote engineering, defined by the hybrid Durasafe® substrate and the 500-year precision legacy of Orell Füssli.
Quick Facts
Country: Switzerland
Code: CHF
Symbol: Fr.
System: Decimal (1 Franc = 100 Rappen)
Status: In circulation
Issuer: Swiss National Bank
The Story of the Swiss Franc
The Swiss franc (CHF) represents the apex of modern monetary engineering, issued by the Swiss National Bank with an uncompromising focus on stability and technical perfection. Its current identity is anchored in the 9th banknote series (2016–2019), designed by Manuela Pfrunder, which replaced traditional portraiture with a concept-driven system representing Time, Light, Wind and Matter. At its core lies the revolutionary Durasafe® substrate—a three-layer structure combining a polymer core with cotton paper surfaces—ensuring exceptional durability, structural integrity and resistance to wear far beyond conventional banknotes.
Design & Symbolism
Banknotes of the CHF series are produced by Orell Füssli Security Printing, a company with over 500 years of continuous craftsmanship. The 9th series integrates more than fifteen advanced security elements, including the Kinegram Volume®—a transparent, optically dynamic metallic feature—alongside laser-perforated Microperf® Swiss crosses and multi-layered infrared and ultraviolet security structures. The vertical format allows a complex spatial composition, while high-precision intaglio engraving creates a distinct tactile resistance that reflects Swiss manufacturing discipline. Every detail, from micro-lettering to alignment tolerances, is executed with near-zero deviation, establishing the franc as the most technically refined banknote system in circulation.
For collectors
For collectors, the Swiss franc stands as a "Reference Standard" in global numismatics. UNC specimens are prized for their structural perfection, flawless surfaces and the full integrity of their advanced security features. The Durasafe® substrate eliminates common paper distortions, preserving a clean, stable form even over time. Because of Switzerland’s extreme quality control and near absence of production errors, each note represents a benchmark of consistency rather than rarity by defect. High-denomination issues, particularly 200 and 1,000 francs, are essential anchors in advanced collections focused on precision, design coherence and the highest level of banknote engineering.
The Swiss franc remains one of the world’s most stable currencies, supported by strong monetary policy, deep reserves and Switzerland’s long-standing financial credibility.