Mexican Gold Pesos were first minted in the early 20th century, during which global currencies were backed by gold reserves.
La Casa de Moneda de México, established in 1535, is the oldest mint in North America and is renowned globally for its tradition of high-quality precious metal coins. Mexican Gold Pesos were minted in an alloy of 90% gold and 10% copper, which helps to give them a sturdy, durable feel and the orangish hue for which they are known.
Mexican Pesos stand out as an affordable investment alternative to modern gold coins due to their low premiums, historical connection, and wide recognition.
After Roosevelt’s EO-6102, Mexican Pesos became a popular way for clandestine gold investors to continue buying and owning under the ownership ban due to the numismatic clause.
Gold Pesos coins from Mexico were minted in six different denominations, ranging from the smallest 2 Pesos to the largest 50 Pesos.
Gold Pesos Denominations and Premiums
The six denominations and their approximate gold weight (AGW) are:
| Denomination | Approx Gold Weight (AGW) | |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Peso | .0482 troy oz (1.499 grams) | – Minted from 1919-1948. – Lowest mintages was in 1944 with only 10,000 coins struck. |
| 2.5 Peso | .0603 troy oz (1.876 grams) | – Produced from 1918-1920 and again from 1944 to 1948. – Lowest mintages include 1944 and 1947 (20,000 and 24,000 respectively) |
| 5 Peso | .1205 troy oz (3.748 grams) | – Produced sporadically from 1905 to 1920 and again in 1955 – Lowest mintages was 1905 with 18,000 coins issued. |
| 10 Peso | .2411 troy oz (7.499 grams) | – Minted from 1905 to 1920, and again in 1959 and 1996. – 1996 issues are matte finish restrikes dated 1959. – The United States Mint in Philadelphia produced 1,000,000 of these coins in 1906. – 1905, 1916 and 1920 are low minted key dates sought after by collectors. |
| 20 Peso | .4823 troy oz (15.001 grams) | – Produced from 1917 to 1921 and again in 1959. – Matte finish restrikes were issued in 1996 dated 1959. |
| 50 Peso | 1.2057 troy oz (37.502 grams) | – The Centenario was minted from 1921 to 1931 to commemorate Mexico’s independence. – Produced again from 1944 to 1947, with later restrikes bearing the 1947 date. |
Premiums vary according to denomination and availability. The 50 Peso coins typically carry premiums as low as 1–2% over melt value, and the smallest denominations (2 and 2.5 pesos) range around 8–15% above melt value.
FindBullionPrices.com tracks silver and gold bullion prices from trusted and reputable online dealers to help you find the best prices when you what to buy Mexican Gold Peso coins.
Modern Gold Pesos Restrikes
Modern restrikes of Mexican Gold Pesos are newly minted coins produced using original specifications. They are identical in gold content, size, and design to their historical counterparts. Restrikes are common in the 2 Pesos, 2.5 Pesos, and 50 Pesos denominations.
The most common is the 1945-dated 2 Peso coin, which has been restruck extensively from the 1950s through recent years. These restrikes typically carry lower premiums.
NGC and PCGS Certified Mexican Gold Pesos
Mexican Gold Pesos that are in excellent condition, especially rare dates that are authenticated and graded by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) can substantially boost their value.
Collectors and investors seek high-grade, certified coins for numismatic appreciation and their intrinsic gold bullion value.
Investment Potential
Mexican Gold Pesos represent a balanced investment opportunity for both bullion investors and collectors. Their historical connection and status as numismatic coins allowed savvy collectors and investors to legally hold gold coins after the 1933 ban until restrictions were lifted in the 1970s.
The affordability and availability of modern restrikes further enhance their attractiveness, offering investors a cost-effective method to build fractional gold reserves.
