rappen

Rappen is the subunit of the Swiss franc, the currency used in Switzerland and in Liechtenstein. One franc is equal to 100 rappen. In everyday use, amounts are typically expressed with decimals, for example Fr. 12.50, and the rappen functions as the fractional component of the franc in pricing and accounting.

Coins and circulation are organized around the decimal subdivision. Rappen coins are issued in denominations used for everyday transactions, commonly including 5, 10, 20 and 50 rappen. The Swiss franc is issued by the Swiss Federal Administration and regulated by the Swiss National Bank, which handles monetary policy and the production of banknotes. In Liechtenstein, which also uses the Swiss franc, the same rappen subdivision applies and Swiss coins and banknotes are generally accepted.

Historically, the rappen emerged with the adoption of the Swiss franc in the 19th century as part of Switzerland’s decimal currency reform. Today, it remains the standard fractional unit of the franc in both Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The term rappen is primarily used in German-speaking contexts; translations in other national languages reflect the same monetary concept as the cent or hundredth part of the franc.

See also: Swiss franc; Liechtenstein franc; currency of Switzerland; monetary policy in Switzerland.