Mexican Gold Peso - 20 Peso

Gold Mexico 20 Pesos

The Mexico Gold 20 Pesos, sometimes referred to as the "Azteca," was first released in 1917. The obverse design of the coin is quite distinctive and immediately recognizable. An image of the circular stone Aztec calendar is inset in the top 2/3 area of the field. The fine detail of the calendar's engraving is spectacular for a coin of this size. Encircling below calendar, in large, uniquely stylized lettering is the inscription, "VEINTE PESOS." Below this, in smaller a style is "15 Gr. ORO PURO" with a 5-pointed star on either side.

The reverse design draws from the Mexico coat of arms, with a fierce eagle, perched upon a cactus, its wings spread high. Dangling from its sharp beak is a snake, held in a death grip, hopelessly struggling. The eagle's right talon firmly grasps the snake's lower body, guaranteeing victory. Above the eagle is written "ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS." A random date is inscribed to the right of the magnificent bird.

Along the smooth edge of the coin is inscribed "INDEPENDENCIA Y LIBERTAD." One final declaration for "independence and liberty."

Highlights

• This item will be pulled from random dates.
• Contains 15 g (.4823 troy ounces) .9 fine gold.
• Face value 20 Pesos.
• Obverse: Features a beautifully distinctive design of the Aztec Calendar with the inscriptions: "Veinte Pesos" and "15 Gr. ORO PURO."
• Reverse: Displays the Mexican coat of arms with the typical eagle of that period and the inscription: "ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS."
• Edge: Features the inscription: "INDEPENDECIA Y LIBERTAD."

History

In 1521, Spanish forces led by Hernan Cortés concluded a 3-month siege of the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlán, razing it to the ground. The city was located near modern day Mexico City. The stone Aztec Calendar Wheel was damaged and buried beneath the city's destruction. It was not until 1790, that the calendar was discovered. It was found during excavation of Mexico City Cathedral's foundation. It was later integrated into the Cathedral as an example of the regional pagan beliefs and their art.

During the later 1800s, anthropological studies of Aztec history began to surge, and interest in the Calendar wheel resurfaced. Now recognized as a vital link to pre-Spanish domination of the area, the Calendar has become a legendary icon. Mexico now proudly recognizes the ancient history of their country, including this amazing relic of the Aztec nation.