Mexican gold coins, such as the Mexican 50 Peso or Centenario, have been produced since 1921 by the Mexican government’s mint.
These coins come in a variety of denominations and are highly sought after by coin collectors around the world due to their unique design and historical significance.
Learn more about the value of Mexican gold coins and how to find the right coin for your collection.
Mexican Gold Pesos
First minted in 1921 and discontinued in 1931, Mexican gold pesos were made from a 90% gold alloy which was composed of 10% copper. The coins are considered legal tender, with the face value inscribed on each one.
Mexican gold pesos generally weigh between .0482 to .0723 ounces, depending on the denomination.
The collectible value of Mexican gold pesos varies according to the condition and rarity of the coin. Coins in uncirculated condition are considered rare and can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars each.
Mexican gold coins represent an excellent opportunity for collectors looking to diversify their collections. Mexico’s rich history and culture make these coins fascinating and unique, enhancing their collectible value.
50 Peso Gold Coin
The 50 peso Mexican gold coin weighs in at 1.2057 troy ounces, making it the largest and heaviest of Mexico’s gold coins. The obverse side of this iconic coin features a portrait of Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla with the date and denomination inscribed around him.
The reverse side is adorned with the Mexican coat of arms and the words “Estados Unidos Mexicanos” written across the bottom.
The 50 peso gold coin is considered a great choice for collectors, as its substantial weight and .900 gold content make it an attractive asset.
20 Peso Gold Coin
The 20 peso gold coin is a popular minting of Mexico’s gold coins. It was first minted in 1921, but production ended in 1931 due to a declining market for gold coins.
Weighing .4823 troy ounces and containing .900 fine gold, the 20 Peso gold coin is without a doubt one of the more collectible coins to watch out for.
The obverse of the 20 Peso coin carries a design that prominently features an eagle with wings spread wide, holding a snake in its talons and beak and perched on a cactus. The reverse face of the coin features the Aztec Sun Stone. It appropriately displays “VEINTE PESOS” or “20 Pesos.”
The 20 peso gold coin is a fine choice for anyone who wishes to add Mexican gold coins to their collections.
10 Peso Gold Coin
The 10 peso gold coin is the smallest and lightest of Mexico’s gold coins, weighing in at .2411 troy oz gold. The obverse side features an image of a woman wearing a crown, surrounded by the words “Estados Unidos Mexicanos.” The reverse displays the Mexican coat of arms, surrounded by the coin’s denomination.
The 10 peso gold coin has been the most common of Mexican coins since it was first issued in 1921. It is also one of the most affordable of Mexico’s gold coins.
2.5 Peso and 2 Peso Gold Coins
Lastly, Mexican gold coins come in two other denominations — 2 1/2 pesos and 2 pesos. The former was minted between 1918 and 1972, while the latter was issued between 1919 and 1920.
Moreover, both coins feature an image of an eagle on their reverse sides. However, their obverse sides are vastly different. The 2.5 peso gold coins feature the bust of Miguel Hidalgo, the father of Mexican independence.
Conversely, the 2 peso gold coins simply display “DOS PESOS,” along with the strike date and mint mark.
Given their historical significance, these coins are highly sought after and can fetch a good price when sold to collectors. Their value typically ranges from around $80 for 2 pesos gold coins and $110 for 2.5 pesos gold coins.
With that in mind, their prices can fluctuate depending on the coin’s condition and demand for it among collectors. Most dates of these coins trade as bullion coins worth a little more than their gold value, except for a couple of issues that are more scarce and valuable.
If you happen to own one of these coins, it is important to have them appraised by a professional numismatist in order to determine its value accurately.
Overall, Mexican gold coins are extremely valuable and make for an excellent addition to anyone’s coin collection.
Mexican Gold Libertad Coins
Mexican Gold Libertad coins are yet another legal tender coin produced by the Mexican Mint. They are included in the Libertad series, which features gold and silver coins of varying sizes and weights ranging from 1/20 oz up to 1kg.
The coins feature a reverse design of the Angel of Independence, an iconic symbol representing Mexico’s freedom from Spain. On the obverse side is an image of the same eagle perched upon a cactus that’s displayed on other gold pesos. The image is once again surrounded by the inscription “Estados Unidos Mexicanos.”
Many of these coins are incredibly rare due to their low mintage. As a result, they tend to command high prices and considerable premiums, typically in the thousands of dollars, for certain issues.
Gold vs. Silver Libertads: Face Value and Market Value
Mexican Libertads come in two forms: the silver ones and the gold ones. While both coins are legal tender, their true worth as collector’s items far outweighs their weight in precious metal, and the coins do not carry denominations.
The world gold and silver markets determine the current market value of each coin, which can fluctuate daily depending on factors such as supply and demand.
In general, Gold Libertads are worth more than Silver Libertads due to their higher gold content. Many collectors have capitalized on this trend by buying Mexican Gold Coins to enhance their collections.
In terms of their spot value, the gold coins are naturally worth much more than the silver ones since gold is worth about $2,000 an ounce. Silver is about $25, but some scarce silver Libertads are worth thousands.
Mexican Gold Centenario Coin
The Mexican Gold Centenario Coinis one of the most popular and highly sought-after gold coins in the world. It was first minted in 1921 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mexican independence.
The coin is composed of .900 fine gold, containing 1.2057 ounces of pure gold. The obverse design features the winged Victory statue holding a laurel wreath. Accompanying the image is the date range of 1821 to 1947, along with the face value of 50 pesos.
The reverse side of the coin features a Mexican Golden Eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak. The words “Estados Unidos Mexicanos” are inscribed above it.
Mexican Gold Centenario Coins are some of the most valuable coins around and can be worth thousands of dollars. Their value depends on their condition and rarity, but they can be priced as high as $3,000 for an uncirculated coin with an MS-63 grade.
What To Know About Mexican Gold Coins
While Mexican gold coins are typically highly sought after by collectors, there is more to these gold bullion coins than just their gold worth.
Here’s what you should know about them:
- History: Mexican gold coins were first minted in 1535 during the reign of Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain. Since then, Mexico has produced a variety of gold coins throughout its history.
- Design: Mexican gold coins feature various designs, but most depict a representation of the Mexican coat of arms — an eagle with a snake in its beak.
- Composition: The gold coins are generally composed of 90% pure gold, which is considered 22 karats for bullion purposes.
- Valuation: The value of Mexican gold coins varies depending on the market price of gold, their age, and their condition.
Where Is the Mexican Mint Located?
The Mexican Mint, or La Casa de Moneda de México as it is officially known, is located in Mexico City. The facility has been operational since 1535 and is the oldest mint anywhere in the Americas.
Did Mexico Ever Produce Pure Gold Coins?
The Gold Libertad, which has been issued since 1981, is made of .999 fine gold.
Add Rare Mexican Gold Coins to Your Coin Collection
For coin collectors looking to add something unique and special to their collections, Mexican gold coins can be a great option. These coins are both beautiful and valuable, making them a desirable addition to any collection.
Bullion Shark has a large selection of rare Mexican gold coins in various sizes and denominations from the 19th century to today. The coins come with the assurance of authenticity and quality.
We also offer a wide range of brilliant uncirculated, certified, graded, and raw Mexican gold coins available to purchase at competitive prices. Explore our extensive selection, including ancient and shipwrecked coins, to find the perfect addition to your coin collection.
Sources:
Coinage of the First Mint of the Americas at Mexico City, 1536-1572 | ANS Digital Library
Sun Stone | World History Encyclopedia
MXN To USD: Convert Mexican Peso to United States Dollar | Forbes Advisor
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla | Facts, Accomplishments, & Biography | Britannica
