Abstract: In a method and an apparatus for examining the genuineness and the value of coins using inductive and opto-electronic devices, the coin diameter, the minting and the nature of the material are determined and evaluated within a test cycle, in which the coin is taken up, centered, clamped and turned through 360.degree.. The coin diameter is ascertained and checked by way of the angle of twist between two disks, which are disposed so that they can be twisted relatively to one another. The apparatus ensures an accurately centered and vibrationless clamping of the coin for an opto-electronic scanning and the inductive identification of the material.

Abstract: Switch with at least two series-connected MOS-FETs has a drain terminal of a preceding MOS-FET connected to a source terminal of a succeeding MOS-FET the MOS-FETs having respective control terminals connectible to a control voltage. The control terminal of the preceding MOS-FET is directly connected to a terminal of the control voltage source. The control terminal of the succeeding MOS-FET is connected to the control terminal of the respective preceding MOS-FET via a diode poled in forward direction with respect to the control voltage source. A resistor is connected between the control terminal and the source terminal of the succeeding MOS-FET.