Government Mint - Mexican Mint

The Mexican Mint: A Legacy of Excellence in Precious Metals

Established in 1535, the Mexican Mint (La Casa de Moneda de México) holds the distinction of being the oldest mint in the Americas and one of the largest producers of silver in the world. Responsible for approximately 24% of global silver production, the Mexican Mint has been a key player in the precious metals industry for over 500 years. The mint is celebrated for its stunning gold and silver coinage, such as the iconic Silver Mexican Libertad, Gold Peso, and Gold Onza. Collectors and investors from around the world value Mexican coins for their historical and collectible significance. In addition to circulating coins, the Mexican Mint also produces commemorative and special edition pieces, further cementing its reputation as a leader in the world of precious metals.

The Rich History of the Mexican Mint

Founded by royal decree from Spain, the Mexican Mint was established as part of Spain’s colonial expansion into the Americas following the conquest of the Aztec Empire. The mint was initially tasked with producing coins for Spain’s new territories, starting with the Mexican peso, followed by the reales and maravedis. As the mint's capabilities grew, it produced the famous eight-real Spanish dollar, which became the model for several other world currencies, including the Chinese Yuan, Japanese Yen, and U.S. Dollar.

In 1925, the mint transitioned under the governance of Banco de México, the Mexican National Central Bank, expanding its role to print banknotes as well. In 1983, the mint’s production facility moved to San Luis Potosí, and its original building became the Mexican National Cultural Museum, preserving its rich history for future generations.

The Historic Gold Centenario: A Timeless Collector's Item

The Mexican Mint’s first major coin to capture global attention was the Gold Centenario 50 pesos coin, minted in 1921 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mexico’s independence. Made from 1.2 oz. of .900 fine gold, these coins featured the iconic Winged Victory (Angel of Independence) on the obverse and the Mexican Coat of Arms on the reverse. Though official production of the 50 Pesos Mexican gold coin ceased in 1947, later reproductions continued intermittently through 2009, all bearing the 1947 date. The Centenario remains a sought-after piece among collectors, with its historical significance and beautiful design contributing to its enduring appeal.

The Mexican Libertad: A Modern Icon of Mexican Bullion

Today, the Mexican Libertad is the flagship of the mint’s bullion offerings. First struck in 1981, the Libertad originally featured the same design as the Gold Centenario, including the Winged Victory and the Mexican Coat of Arms. In 2000, the design was updated to prominently showcase the Winged Victory statue in front of the two famous volcanoes, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. The modern Coat of Arms, surrounded by 10 historical versions of the seal, adorns the reverse. Mexican Libertads are available in both gold and silver, with sizes ranging from 1/20 oz. to 1 Kilo. The coins are struck in a variety of finishes, including brilliant uncirculated, proof, reverse proof, and antique, in typically very low mintages. These coins are official bullion of the Mexican government and remain one of the few international coins issued without a face value but still recognized as legal tender. 

Adding Mexican Mint Coins to Your Collection

The Mexican Mint's rich history and exceptional craftsmanship make its coins highly sought after by both collectors and investors. From the historic Gold Centenario to the modern-day Mexican Libertad, these coins offer a blend of artistry, cultural significance, and investment value that is difficult to match. With a wide variety of options in both gold and silver, the Mexican Mint provides something for every type of investor or collector.

If you're interested in adding these iconic Mexican Mint coins to your collection or portfolio, feel free to contact us at Bullion Exchanges with any questions you may have. Our knowledgeable customer service team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect precious metals products to meet your investment goals.