This Mexican coin represents the 4th denomination coin of the Mexican Peso (Series AA). This variant of the 50 Centavo was minted from 1970-1983. It was preceded by earlier variant, which was minted from 1964-1969. Both types share the same overall size and composition, although differ in their reverse art. As the earlier variant used the more detailed "Type 2" National Emblem.
The coin is a relatively large, reeded-edge design, made of a Copper-Nickel alloy and weighs 6.5 g. It's dimensions are 25 mm (0.84 in) wide and 1.9 mm (0.075 in) thick. Making it similar in size to a US Quarter (24.26/0.955 in), in that respect. (Note: This article's reference to "Series A", should be taken as a generalization. Of the period which the coin circulated.)
Observe
The detailed observe depicts Aztec Emperor Cuauhtémoc (1497-1525), in profile. Surrounding this image is a wreath of text. The upper lists the coin's CINCUENTA CENTAVOS" (Fifty Cents) value, in bold letters. While lower reads, "Mo 1991", representing the Mexican Mint's mark (Mo) and the coin's "1991" mint date. A pair of dimples separate the upper and lower text.
Notably Cuauhtémoc (1497-1525 CE) was the last Aztec Emperor. He ascended to the throne in 1520, after death of Emperor Cuitláhuac (1476-1520 CE). At the time the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, was under siege and affected by a smallpox epidemic. Cuauhtémoc was captured on 13 August 1521, while attempting to cross Lake Texcoco with his family.
Observe
The observe art is full of symbolic meaning, relating to the Nahua/Aztecs. A raised rim (both sides) encircles the Mexican Coat of Arms, with a header of bold letters. It reads the "ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS", the United States of Mexico.
The Coat of Arms contained relates to the founding of the city of Tenochtitlan (Aztec capital). The legend tells of the Mēxihcah (a Nahua tribe) wandering, in search of a homeland. It was foretold in a vision that it would become the site of a great city. Upon on an island in Lake Texcoco, an eagle was spotted perched on a nopal (cactus), consuming a snake. Signaling to Mēxihcah nomads, the site to built their city.
From the small island the Mēxihcah built the chināmitl, "floating gardens" to grow their crops. Undeterred by the hard work, they built the greatest city in Mesoamerica. Trading to the distant Pacific Ocean and possibly the Incan Empire of the Andes Mountains. Under the rule of Emperor Ahuitzotl (1486-1502) there was a great flood of Lake Texcoco. Damaging Tenochtitlan, from which was rebuilt on a grander scale.
Ahuitzotl was succeeded by his nephew, Emperor Moctezuma II (1502-1520). Who ruled the empire during the Spanish invasion, commanded by conquistador Conquistador Cortés (1485-1547). After the Spanish conquest, Tenochtitlan served as a new capital for Spanish America. In order gain it's former power and prestige. The area which upper-class Spanish lived continued to be known as "Mexico-Tenochtitlan", for a period. Although the name Ciudad de México (Mexico City) has been the formal name since 3 August 1521.
Size Comparison
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