Mexican Mint

Mexican Mint

The Mexican Mint is the oldest mint in all of North America and furthermore one of the longest-running mints in the world. The Mexican Mint produces circulation coinage, bullion coins, and medals for Mexico and other nations. Learn more about the Mexican Mint, right here at BGASC.

History of the Mexican Mint

In 1521, the Spanish conquered the Aztec Empire and set up what was called New Spain. This area included Mexico, Cuba, Haiti, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and more. 14 years later, Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza founded the region’s first mint in the new capital, Ciudad de Mexico. This new mint produced silver and gold coins that were used throughout New Spain.

In the centuries that followed, the mint underwent many changes in order to modernize it. From 1810 to 1821, the central government wasn’t able to control the country during Mexico’s War of Independence. As such, coin distribution was nearly impossible. This led to the mint breaking off into several different branches.

In 1925 Mexico’s central bank was given power over striking coins and printing banknotes. By 1992, the mint was merged into one facility which is located in San Luis Potosi. This location is over 200 miles from Apartado 13 which served as the main location beginning in 1850. Apartado 13 is now the National Numismatic Museum of Mexico.

Mexican Libertad Series

Gold Libertad Coins debuted in 1981, with a Silver Libertad being introduced next year. While silver coins have been released annually since they debuted, gold coins have a much more unique release schedule. After being released in 1981 in 3 sizes (1/4 oz, 1/2 oz, and 1 oz) they weren’t released again until 1991. When they returned in 1991, 1/10 oz and 1/20 oz coins were issued as well. Gold coins were released from 1991 to 1994, returned again in 2000, and have been issued annually since 2002. Fractional-ounce gold coins have been issued every year except for 2012.

Silver coins debuted in just a 1 oz size. In 1991, 4 fractional ounce weights debuted. A 2 oz and 5 oz coin was introduced in 1996, followed by a 1 kilogram version in 2008. Proof strikes for both gold and silver coins are also available in all the available BU sizes for each respective metal. Reverse-proof strikes are also available in this series.

The obverse of these coins showcases the Mexican coat of arms. This image shows a golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus holding a rattlesnake in its talons. In 2000, the design was updated for coins with a weight of 1 oz or more. The previous 10 historic versions of the Mexican coat of arms frame the central design.

The reverse of these coins features a depiction of Winged Victory. From 1982 to 1995, she was displayed in front-facing relief holding broken chains in one hand and a wreath crown in the other. Since 1996, Victory has been featured in a three-quarter side portrait with more visibility of two volcanoes in the background, the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes.

Mexican Pesos

Another product from the Mexican Mint you’ll find at BGASC is Mexican Pesos. These coins didn’t come to Mexico until 1863, with a majority of them coming post-1900. Interestingly, the Mexican Mint released a 50 Mexican Peso Gold Coin in 1921 for the 100th anniversary of Mexican independence. The design seen on this Centenario coin served as the design basis for the Libertad Series.

Designs seen on these coins differ based on the year of issue and denomination. At BGASC, we have Peso coins ranging from 2 Pesos to 200 Pesos with many unique years of issue available.

Mexican Mint Questions

For any questions about the Mexican Mint, contact the BGASC team today at 888-992-4272. We can also be easily contacted via email or through our online chat feature.