Mexican Gold 50 Pesos 'Centenario' Bullion Coin
Coin/Bullion · Casa de Moneda de México (Mexican Mint), the oldest mint in the Americas, established in 1535.
Pattern: Centenario Series, first introduced in 1921 to celebrate the centennial of Mexico's independence.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Casa de Moneda de México (Mexican Mint), the oldest mint in the Americas, established in 1535.
Material
90% Gold, 10% Copper (21.6K). Contains 37.5 grams (1.2057 troy ounces) of pure gold.
Dimensions
Diameter: 37 mm; Thickness: 2.69 mm; Total weight: 41.67 grams (1.339 troy oz).
Description
A magnificent example of the Centenario, one of the world's most iconic gold bullion coins. It depicts El Ángel de la Independencia, holding a laurel crown and broken chains, symbolizing freedom from Spanish rule. Larger and heavier than most standard bullion coins like the Krugerrand, it is prized for its historical beauty and high gold content.
Key Features
Weight of 37.5g pure gold (distinctive compared to 1oz standards), dual dates 1821-1947, and the iconic Winged Victory motif.
Material & Composition
90% Gold, 10% Copper (21.6K). Contains 37.5 grams (1.2057 troy ounces) of pure gold.
Finish & Decoration
Satin bullion finish. Features 'Angel of Independence' (Nike) against the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. Reverse features the Mexican Coat of Arms.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '50 PESOS', '37.5G ORO PURO', and dates '1821' and '1947'. Edge is lettered 'INDEPENDENCIA Y LIBERTAD'.
Construction Details
Die-struck bullion coin minted by the sovereign national mint of Mexico using industrial high-pressure presses.
Functional Features
Monetary denomination (50 Pesos) though primarily used as a store of value/bullion investment; edge lettering for counterfeit prevention.
Handle & Grip Details
None (Reeded or lettered edge for handling and physical protection).
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality mint state striking. The 10% copper alloy provides durability (coin gold) while maintaining the deep luster of the 21.6 karat gold content.
Authentication Indicators
The '1947' date is the signature of the official restrike. The font of '50 PESOS' and the alignment of the Winged Victory should be checked against mint standards. Weight must be 41.67g total.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mexico City, Mexico; Casa de Moneda de México.
Era & Period
Modern/Post-War era; specifically the 1947 restrike period which constitutes the bulk of market availability.
Age Estimate
Likely a restrike produced between 1949 and 2000, as most coins dated '1947' are official later-dated restrikes.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Mexican national identity and independence; widely used as a traditional wedding gift ('Arras') and a hedge against inflation in Latin America.
Condition Notes
Appears to be in 'About Uncirculated' to 'Uncirculated' condition. Light surface abrasions and bag marks consistent with bullion handling; no major gouges or rim dents visible. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
Variable based on spot gold price + 2% to 5% premium. Typically retails between $2,300 and $2,800 USD depending on the current market price of 1.2 oz of gold.
Care & Maintenance
Never clean or polish coins with abrasives. Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule to prevent 'red spots' or copper spotting.
Similar Pieces
Mexican 20 Peso (Aztec Calendar), 10 Peso (Hidalgo), and the modern Libertad series. Competes with the US Gold Eagle and Austrian Philharmonic.
Interesting Facts
The 1947 Centenario was so popular that the Mexican Mint continued to strike coins dated 1947 for decades to meet investor demand. Despite its '50 Pesos' face value, its gold value is more than 3,000 times that today.