How silver is priced in Switzerland
Swiss banks and dealers quote silver in francs per kilo, the usual bar size, and per ounce for coins. The figures here are spot silver converted at today's USD/CHF rate — the metal value before 8.1% VAT and dealer premiums.
8.1% VAT on silver
Switzerland's VAT exemption for precious metals covers only gold: bars of 995+ fineness and gold coins. Silver bars and coins carry the standard 8.1% VAT. Many banks and dealers offer silver stored in a customs-free warehouse (Zollfreilager), where VAT is not charged while the metal stays there; VAT becomes due if you take delivery in Switzerland.
No tax on private gains
Switzerland does not tax private capital gains on movable assets, so private investors normally pay no tax on gains from silver. People classed as professional traders are the exception, and silver counts towards cantonal wealth tax at its year-end value.
Old Swiss silver coins and hallmarks
Swiss circulation coins of ½, 1, 2 and 5 francs were struck in 835 silver up to 1967 and in cupronickel from 1968. A 1 franc coin holds 4.175 g of pure silver; a 5 franc coin from 1931 to 1967 (15 g) holds about 12.5 g. Melt values are in the coin table above. Legal finenesses for silver articles are 999, 925 and 800; articles must carry a fineness mark and a registered responsibility mark, and the official hallmark is voluntary except on watch cases.
Tax and duty information last reviewed October 2026. Rules change — confirm with your dealer or tax authority before a large purchase.