Latest Swiss Gold Coin

The latest Swiss gold coin celebrates 500 years of the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

The 22nd January 1506, was the day the Pontifical Swiss Guard was considered established. On this day 150 Swiss guards were put on duty on the Piazza San Pietro by Pope Julius II to guard the entrance to the Vatican in Rone.

That day the foundations were laid for a regular and permanent body of Swiss guards who, even to this day, constantly monitor the entrance points to the Vatican City in Rome. Currently the Papal Guard consists of 110 men of Swiss nationality.

During the plundering of Rome on 6th may 1527, many guards were killed and since then 6th May has been a special day each year, on which the new guards are sworn in.

The commemorative coin, '500 years of the Pontifical Swiss Guard' was issued on the 20th January 2006. The Artist for the coin was Rudolf Mirer, Obersaxen. The coin image is that of a Swiss Guard. Legal face value is 50 Swiss francs. It is .900 pure gold and weighs 11.29grams. It is a proof coin and only 6000 were minted.

It is currently unavailable from the Swiss Mint but some keen searching may fine one at a reputable coin dealers or on eBay.

This is a very nice coin and this latest Swiss gold coin would make an excellent addition to any gold coin collection.