SWITZERLAND

Face value - 5 francs
Metal - nordic gold-copper-nickel
Mintage - 120000 pieces
In circulation since 15.01.2003

Chalandamarz

Chalandamarz - is a traditional national festival, which usually is celebrated on the 1st of March. Its celebration differs much from one village to another, however, common principles are in the following. Pupils of different ages - but always boys only, - lead the way. Some of them are imitating "old men", other wear traditional school suit, including a hat, blue short and red neckerchief. Everybody is holding a hand bell. Its size determines a place in the demonstration: those, who have big one (for cows), are the leaders; those, who have little one (for goats) are going in the end. Everyone tries to have the biggest hand bell to have a right to lead the way. A demonstration moves from one street or village to another, making breaks near every fountain. Passers-by as well as girls throw coins and sweets into the bells. All the money go for developing of schools, and all the sweets are being eaten at once by the children.