Abstract: An electric switch of the sort capable of carrying high amperage currents, especially under short circuit conditions is provided with a ferromagnetic U-shaped yoke piece around the contacts and an armature mounted on the movable contact carrier in position to be attracted by the magnetic force created in the yoke when current flows through the contacts. The fixed and movable contact members act like a one-turn electromagnetic coil especially under severe short circuit conditions to hold the contacts together against electromagnetic forces which otherwise would cause contact separation under such conditions. Rocking of the movable contact on the fixed contact is prevented by a leaf spring which acts in closed circuit position of the contacts and in cooperation with the holding means on short circuit conditions.