The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss franc, abbreviated CHF and written locally as "Fr." or "SFr." As of 2026, one US dollar buys roughly 0.88 Swiss francs, making the franc one of the strongest and most stable currencies in the world. It is issued by the Swiss National Bank and is also legal tender in the neighbouring principality of Liechtenstein.
The Basics of the Swiss Franc
The franc is divided into 100 smaller units, called Rappen in German, centimes in French, centesimi in Italian, and raps in Romansh — reflecting Switzerland's four national languages. Its three-letter ISO code, CHF, stands for "Confoederatio Helvetica Franc," using the Latin name for the country so that no single language group is favoured over another. Helvetia, the female national personification of Switzerland, gives the currency its neutral, pan-Swiss identity.
- Currency: Swiss franc
- ISO code: CHF
- Symbol: Fr. (also CHF or SFr.)
- Subunit: 100 Rappen / centimes
- Issuing authority: Swiss National Bank (SNB)
Why the Franc Is a Global "Safe Haven"
The Swiss franc is widely regarded as a safe-haven currency, meaning investors flock to it during times of global uncertainty. This reputation rests on several pillars: Switzerland's long-standing political neutrality, its low inflation and public debt, a powerful and discreet banking sector, and substantial reserves held by the central bank. When financial markets wobble, demand for francs typically rises, pushing its value up against the euro and the dollar.
That strength can be a double-edged sword. A very strong franc makes Swiss exports — watches, pharmaceuticals, precision machinery — more expensive abroad. To manage this, the SNB has at times intervened aggressively in currency markets, buying foreign currencies to keep the franc from climbing too high.
A Short History of the Currency
The modern Swiss franc was introduced in 1850, shortly after the founding of the Swiss federal state, replacing a patchwork of coins issued by individual cantons and even private banks. For its first decades the franc was tied to the value of silver and later gold, and Switzerland remained on a gold standard longer than most nations.
One of the most dramatic moments in its recent history came in September 2011, when the SNB capped the franc at 1.20 per euro to stop it appreciating during the eurozone debt crisis. The cap held for more than three years until January 2015, when the bank abruptly abandoned it. The franc surged by as much as 30 percent in minutes, an event nicknamed the "Frankenshock" that rattled traders and brokerages worldwide.
Banknotes and Coins
Switzerland's current ninth series of banknotes, rolled out between 2016 and 2019, is celebrated for its design and security. Unusually, the notes depict abstract themes rather than famous people — concepts such as time, light, water, wind, matter, and language — each paired with a Swiss landscape and a representative object. Denominations and their dominant colours are:
- 1,000 francs — purple; among the most valuable banknotes in everyday circulation anywhere
- 200 francs — brown
- 100 francs — blue
- 50 francs — green
- 20 francs — red
- 10 francs — yellow
Each note carries up to 18 distinct security features, helping make Swiss currency among the hardest in the world to counterfeit. Coins come in 5, 10, and 20 centimes, plus ½, 1, 2, and 5 francs. The familiar coin designs, including the standing figure of Helvetia, have changed remarkably little for over a century.
Using the Franc as a Visitor
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and prices in restaurants, hotels, and shops can surprise first-time visitors. Card payments are accepted almost everywhere, including contactless and mobile wallets, but it is wise to carry some cash for small mountain cafés, market stalls, and ticket machines. ATMs are plentiful and reliable. Euros are occasionally accepted in tourist hotspots, though usually at poor exchange rates and with change given in francs. Service is included by law, so tipping is appreciated but never obligatory. For more on the country itself, see our switzerland country guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Switzerland use the euro?
No. Although Switzerland sits in the heart of Europe and is surrounded by eurozone countries, it is not a member of the European Union and has kept its own currency, the Swiss franc. Some border towns and tourist areas will accept euros informally, but the franc is the only official legal tender.
What is the symbol for the Swiss franc?
The franc is most often written as "Fr." or with its ISO code CHF, for example "CHF 50" or "50 Fr." You may also see "SFr." in older or international contexts. Unlike the dollar or euro, the franc has no single distinctive currency symbol.
Is the Swiss franc a strong currency?
Yes. The franc is considered one of the world's strongest and most stable currencies, prized as a safe haven during financial turmoil. Its strength comes from Switzerland's economic stability, low inflation, neutrality, and respected banking system.
What other country uses the Swiss franc?
The principality of Liechtenstein, Switzerland's tiny eastern neighbour, also uses the Swiss franc as its official currency under a long-standing monetary agreement, so the two countries share the same money.