Mexico 50 Pesos Gold Centenario Coin (1947 Restrike Edition)
Coin (Bullion and Numismatic) · Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange tint due to the 10% copper alloy content, typical of historic Latin American coinage.
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper). This fineness (0.900) means the coin contains 90% pure gold and 10% alloying metals for durability.
Type
Coin (Bullion and Numismatic)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold, 10% Copper). This fineness (0.900) means the coin contains 90% pure gold and 10% alloying metals for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a slight reddish/orange tint due to the 10% copper alloy content, typical of historic Latin American coinage.
Weight
41.67 grams gross weight, containing exactly 1.2057 troy ounces (37.5 grams) of pure gold.
Description
The Centenario is a masterpiece of numismatic art, featuring 'The Angel of Independence' (Winged Victory) against the backdrop of the volcanoes Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl. It is one of the most recognizable and traded gold bullion coins in the world, prized for its sheer size and 20% higher gold content than standard 1oz bullion coins.
Key Features
Design of Winged Victory holding a laurel wreath and broken chains; the specific '37.5G ORO PURO' stamp; and the dual dates commemorating the Centennial of Independence.
Color & Finish
Deep, rich orange-yellow with a satin-to-lustrous finish typical of business strikes; the design features high-relief details with minor surface bag marks and planchet wisps.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with '50 PESOS' (denomination), '37.5G ORO PURO' (gold content), and dated '1821' and '1947'. The 'Mo' mint mark for the Mexico City Mint is located on the reverse (not pictured).
Dimensions Estimate
37.1 mm in diameter and 2.69 mm in thickness; an oversized bullion coin compared to standard 1oz coins.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies entirely on high-relief metal engraving.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. The coin features a lettered edge (edge incuse) inscribed with 'INDEPENDENCIA Y LIBERTAD'.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge is smooth with incuse lettering rather than reeded.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck with heavy industrial dies. The high-relief 'Angel' shows exceptional anatomical detail and drapery, reflective of early 20th-century classical engraving techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for numerals, sharp detail on the Angel's feathers, and the characteristic 10% copper 'warmth'. Counterfeits often lack the crispness of the '37.5G' lettering.
Origin & Maker
Mexico; struck by the Casa de Moneda de México (Mexico City Mint), the oldest mint in the Americas.
Era & Period
Republic of Mexico, Mid-Century Restrike. Originally designed for the 100th anniversary of independence (1921), this '1947' dated version is the most common restrike era.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1949 and 1972, as the vast majority of '1947' dated Centenarios are official government restrikes minted during those years.
Cultural Significance
Represents Mexican national identity and freedom. Frequently used in 'Las Arras' (wedding coin traditions) and gifted as a store of generational wealth in Mexican culture.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Choice Uncirculated (AU-BU). Visible surface bag marks and small scratches consistent with bulk storage. No major dings or rim nicks visible.
Value Estimate
Value is primarily based on the current gold spot price multiplied by 1.2057, typically carrying a 2-5% premium. Current market value is approximately $2,800 - $3,000 USD depends on spot.
Care & Maintenance
Should not be cleaned or polished as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule or flip to prevent surface scratches.
Similar Items
20 Peso 'Azteca' Gold Coin, 1oz Gold Libertad (modern successor), and the Austrian 100 Korona (similar large-format gold restrike).
Interesting Facts
The Centenario was first minted in 1921 to celebrate 100 years of Mexican Independence. Because of its popularity, millions were restruck with the 1947 date to meet investment demand.