The Mexico Libertad Coins: Patriotic Symbols of Mexican Independence

Mexican Independence, an event celebrated every September 16, is something that resonates with millions more than two centuries after Catholic priest Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla led the push for Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1810. Celebrated around the world with feasts, fireworks, and other festivities, Mexican Independence Day is a holiday evoking joy and patriotism for so many. Among the symbols of Mexican independence is Libertas, the personification of liberty. The figure of Libertas serves as both the main feature and namesake of the Libertad silver and gold bullion coins that La Casa de Moneda de Mexico (Mexican Mint) has struck since the early 1980s.

Both the silver and gold are .999-fine, making them virtually pure, and they are available in various sizes, including:

• 32.15 troy ounces, 1,000 grams
• 5 troy ounces, 155.5 grams
• 2 troy ounces, 62.2 grams
• 1 troy ounce, 31.1 grams
• 1/2 troy ounce, 15.56 grams
• 1/4 troy ounce, 7.8 grams
• 1/10 troy ounce, 3.11 grams
• 1/20 troy ounce, 1.56 grams

Gold

• 1 troy ounce, 31.1 grams
• 1/2 troy ounce, 15.56 grams
• 1/4 troy ounce, 7.8 grams
• 1/10 troy ounce, 3.11 grams
• 1/20 troy ounce, 1.56 grams

In addition to more than a dozen different types and sizes of Libertad Mexican coins, there was also a 1/4-ounce platinum coin minted in 1989. And while Libertads don’t carry any declaration of face value, they are guaranteed by the Mexican Mint and are recognized for their value based on their precious-metal content.

These coins have been offered in various finishes, including regular bullion strikes, proofs, reverse proofs, and antique finishes. These options, combined with some four decades of production and the presence of many scarce dates and other desirable issues, make the Libertads a wonderful area of focus for collectors. The PCGS Set Registry also offers opportunities for collectors to build sets of silver Mexican Libertads and gold Mexican Libertads. No matter how big or small a set one hopes to build, collecting Mexican Libertads is a fitting way to recognize Mexican independence.