1982 Mexico 50 Pesos Cupro-Nickel Coin, Coyolxauhqui / Templo Mayor Design
Coin / Numismatic Object · Casa de Moneda de México (Mexican Mint), the oldest mint in the Americas, established in 1535.
Pattern: Coyolxauhqui / Templo Mayor Series, issued between 1982 and 1984.
Type
Coin / Numismatic Object
Maker
Casa de Moneda de México (Mexican Mint), the oldest mint in the Americas, established in 1535.
Material
Cupro-Nickel (Base metal alloy of Copper and Nickel). Despite the silver-like appearance, this specific circulating 50 pesos coin contains no silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 35.0 mm; Thickness: 2.4 mm; Weight: 19.8 grams. It is a large, heavy coin roughly equivalent in diameter to an American silver dollar.
Description
This impressive 50 Pesos coin is one of the most artistically significant pieces of modern Mexican circulation currency. It depicts the decapitated and dismembered Aztec goddess Coyolxauhqui, replicating the famous 1978 archaeological find that led to the excavation of the Templo Mayor in Mexico City. The coin captures the intricate Mesoamerican art style with bold, deep reliefs and a thick, substantial feel in the hand.
Key Features
The large size (35mm) and the depiction of the Coyolxauhqui stone; the unique stylized font; the 'Mo' mint mark.
Material & Composition
Cupro-Nickel (Base metal alloy of Copper and Nickel). Despite the silver-like appearance, this specific circulating 50 pesos coin contains no silver content.
Finish & Decoration
Mint circulation strike. Features a highly detailed relief of the Aztec moon goddess Coyolxauhqui as discovered on a stone monolithic disk at the Templo Mayor. Border contains 'Templo Mayor de México' and 'Coyolxauhqui' in stylized text.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Includes the 'Mo' mint mark of the Mexican Mint. Denomination '$50' and the year '1982' are clearly stamped on the reverse side.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck coinage; machine manufacture using high-pressure presses to stamp designs onto planchets.
Functional Features
Reeded edge for security and grip; raised rim to protect the design from wear; legal tender face value ($50 Pesos) at the time of issue.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handheld numismatic item.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship. The die engraving successfully translates a massive, complex stone relief into a small circular format with excellent clarity and depth.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (19.8g) and diameter (35mm) are consistent with official mint specifications. The sharpness of the die-strike and the specific 'Mo' mint mark placement are correct for this issue year.
Origin & Manufacturing
Mexico City, Mexico. Produced by the Mexican National Mint.
Era & Period
Modern Mexico (Late 20th Century). Specifically the period of high inflation in the early 1980s leading to the currency revaluation of 1993.
Age Estimate
Dated 1982; approximately 42 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents Mexico's pride in its Aztec heritage and the 'Indigenismo' movement that integrated pre-Hispanic history into modern Mexican identity.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) circulation condition. Shows visible surface contact marks, minor rim nicks (bag marks), and typical oxidation for cupro-nickel. No major structural damage.
Value Estimate
$1.00 - $3.00 USD. While historically and artistically interesting, they were minted in high volumes (over 600 million in 1982) and lack precious metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with silver chemicals as this is a base-metal coin and harsh chemicals can ruin the numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
1982-1984 50 Pesos (Stainless Steel version is smaller and lighter); 1970s Silver 25 Pesos (contains .720 silver); 1980s Silver Libertads (pure silver bullion).
Interesting Facts
The discovery of the stone shown on this coin was accidental; electrical workers found it in 1978, sparking one of the most important archaeological digs in Mexican history. By the end of the 1980s, high inflation made this large coin nearly worthless, leading to the 'Nuevos Pesos' in 1993.