Swissmint Silber "Pioniere der Schweizer Luftfahrt" 20 g - 2025

The silver coin "Pioneers of Swiss Aviation" 20 – 2025 is the first commemorative coin in a three-part series from the Swiss Mint, Swissmint. Aviation in Switzerland began at the end of the 19th century with balloon pioneers. In 1897, the Federal Council decided to establish a Swiss airship company—ten years after military airship operations had gained a foothold in Europe. Prior to this, pioneers like Eduard Spelterini and the Piccard brothers had conducted initial balloon experiments for the army. With the outbreak of World War I and the development of modern air forces, ballooning lost its significance; the unit was eventually disbanded in 1937. The series kicks off with the 20-franc coin "Pioneers of Swiss Aviation," which tells the story of the beginning of the conquest of the skies by hot air balloons. The commemorative silver coin "Pioneers of Swiss Aviation" 20 g - 2025 is made of silver and weighs 20 g. It is offered in an uncirculated condition with a mintage of 7,500 pieces. The obverse features a variety of balloons, whose shapes and baskets impressively reflect the technical achievements of their time. This depiction not only symbolizes technological progress but also embodies the enthusiasm and pioneering spirit of early Swiss aviation enthusiasts. Against the picturesque backdrop of the Saanenland with the distinctive mountains Gummfluh, La Videmanette, and Rüeblihorn, the balloons ascend into the sky—accompanied by the inscription "Pioneers of Swiss Aviation." The reverse is adorned with a stylized propeller blade, symbolizing technological advancement up to the present day. It is framed by the inscription "CONFOEDERATIO HELVETICA 2025." The face value of 20 francs and the letter "B" for the minting place Bern complete the coin design.