Switzerland. Bimetal 10 Francs 2012. Cow fighting in Valais. Proof

Eringer cows have been kept in Valais since time immemorial. These small and sturdy animals are characterised by a lively temperament and pugnacity. The ease with which they move in difficult terrain makes them ideal for the mountains. Due to their rather modest milk yield, however, the middle of the last century saw a considerable temporary decline in the number of these brown-and-black cows. Thanks to the unique tradition of cow fighting, which is enjoying growing popularity, the population of Eringer cows is on the increase again and now amounts to around 13,500 animals.

The natural struggles for dominance in the herd get under way in the spring when the animals are let out on the pastures for the first time. When they are taken up to the mountains in early June, cows from different stalls come face to face. This always results in tussles for dominance within the herd. This natural combative behaviour led to the first organised cow fights in 1922. In addition to the regional qualifiers at the autumn and spring festivals, the queen of queens is crowned at the cantonal finals in Aproz each May.

Mintage: 12,000

Packed in custom coin box

Source: Swiss Mint