Switzerland Shooting Taler. 50 Francs 2020. Silver Proof

Silver mintage lowered to only 1,000 coins

The Swiss tradition of marksmanship was established during the old Swiss Confederacy in the 15th century, when festival participants used crossbows in shooting contests. The legend of William Tell recalls this tradition. In modern times, a shooting festival is held every year in a different canton. As many as 50,000 marksmen have attended some of them. In 2020 it is a Federal Shooting Festival and will be held in Lucerne from June 12 to July 12. Silver and gold versions of the traditional coins used to help mark and promote the event will be available in what has been a tradition since the 19th century.

The 50 franc silver proof coin nearly always sells out, and has a mintage for 2020 of only 1,000 coins. It is .900 fine silver, weighs 25 grams and is 37 millimeters (1.45 inches) in diameter.

The designs are identical except for the expression of value. The obverse shows a pair allegorical goddesses behind a lion.  Helvetia is seated, a sword in her left hand, and her right hand on the Swiss coat of arms. To her right is a female figure representing Lucerne, holding a rifle, with the cantonal arms at her feet. The reverse has the face value within a wreath with crossed rifles, a powder horn, and shooting bag below. Coins should be ready at the end of January.