No.9: 50 Pesos Gold Coin
In 1921, the “Casa de Moneda” (Mexican Mint) minted the 50 Pesos Gold coin, also known as the “Centenario”. It commemorates the 100th anniversary of Mexico’s independence from Spain on August 24, 1821. The coin is not a currency for circulation; the nominal value of 50 pesos is only used for legal purposes and does not reflect the real value of the gold content.
It weighs about 41.7 grams, measures 37 mm in diameter and contains 37.5 grams of pure gold.
On the obverse of the coin, we can see the Angel of Independence representing Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. In her right hand she’s holding a laurel wreath symbolizing victory, while in her left hand there is a broken chain symbolizing freedom. In the background we also see the two famous Mexican volcanoes Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl.
On the Angel’s left side is the year of Mexico’s independence and the face value of the coin. On the right, we can see the gold content as well as the date of issue of the coin.
The reverse of the coin displays the coat of arms of Mexico. It consists of an eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus with a snake in its beak. The words “Estados Unidos Mexicanos” surround this design, which translate to United Mexican States.
On the edge of the coin we can see the inscription “Independencia y Libertad”.
This gold coin was then derived to make other gold coins with values below 50 pesos which, however, also refer to the history of Mexican independence. There are 5 of them: 20 pesos, 10 pesos, 5 pesos, 2.5 pesos and 2 pesos.
For those who have a true appreciation of history, or simply of Mexico, these coins are very valuable. They are more than just gold coins, they are part of the history of Mexico.
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