2022 1 oz Silver Mexican Libertad – BU

A Legendary Silver Legacy: The Story Behind the Mexican Libertad

Standing tall against the backdrop of two iconic Mexican volcanoes, the Winged Victory statue on the Mexican Libertad tells a tale as rich as the silver from which it's crafted. The origins of this beloved coin trace back to 1982, when the Mexican Mint decided to create a silver bullion coin that would showcase the nation's storied history and cultural heritage. However, the design itself has much deeper roots, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1921 Centenario gold coin that was minted to celebrate Mexico's centennial of independence from Spain.

The imagery on the Libertad comes from the skilled hands of Emilio del Moral, a talented engineer and engraver at the Mexican Mint. When launching the Libertad series, the mint chose to honor his powerful vision while adapting it for a new era. This artistic lineage connects modern collectors with Mexico's numismatic history, creating a tangible link to the past.

What truly sets the Libertad apart is the ancient legend behind its imagery. The reverse features the majestic Winged Victory statue against the backdrop of two mountains: Iztaccíhuatl and the volcano Popocatépetl. According to Mexican folklore, Popocatépetl was a great warrior who fell in love with Iztaccíhuatl, the daughter of a king. Tragically, Iztaccíhuatl died on "Lover's Peak" believing her beloved had perished in battle. Few coins capture such profound storytelling within their design.

The Mexican Mint itself holds a prestigious place in numismatic history. Established in 1535, it stands as the oldest mint in the Americas, with centuries of expertise infused into each coin it produces. This institutional knowledge ensures that modern Libertads maintain the exceptional quality that collectors have come to expect.

Since its introduction, the Libertad has evolved to become not just a treasured collectible but also a respected investment vehicle. The 2022 edition continues this proud tradition, offering the same 99.9% pure silver content and iconic imagery that has made the series a cornerstone of many numismatic portfolios. As both a piece of art and a store of value, the Libertad transcends the typical boundaries of bullion coinage.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2022 Mexican Silver Libertad showcases the iconic Winged Victory statue (also known as the Angel of Independence), a beloved monument and symbol of Mexico City. This angelic figure stands majestically between the volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuati, creating a stunning tableau that captures Mexico's natural and cultural heritage. Since 2000, the design has featured a side-profile relief of Winged Victory, symbolizing Mexico's enduring spirit and quest for freedom. The obverse also displays the weight denomination, the words "PLATA PURA" (pure silver), the fineness (.999), and the year of mintage.

The reverse side presents the Mexican National Seal in exquisite detail—an eagle perched upon a cactus, dramatically seizing a serpent in its beak and talons. This powerful national emblem is encircled by the words "ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS" (United Mexican States) on a decorative wreath. Adding to the coin's visual complexity and historical depth, the National Seal is surrounded by ten distinct historical heraldic designs arranged along the perimeter, each representing different eras in Mexico's rich history. This thoughtful composition transforms the Libertad from mere currency into a miniature artistic canvas that celebrates Mexico's complex heritage.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 1 oz
• Manufacturer: Banco de Mexico
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Features the Winged Victory statue between volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccihuati, with weight, purity, and year indicated.
• Reverse: Displays the Mexican National Seal (eagle with serpent on cactus) surrounded by ten historical heraldic designs.

Investment Appeal

The 2022 1 oz Silver Mexican Libertad offers collectors and investors a compelling combination of precious metal security and cultural significance. With its guaranteed 99.9% silver purity, this coin provides a tangible hedge against economic uncertainty while also offering potential for premium appreciation beyond its metal content. Unlike many government-issued bullion coins, Libertads typically have lower mintage numbers, which can enhance their collectibility and long-term value potential.

As an IRA-eligible investment, the Libertad provides a tax-advantaged option for retirement planning, allowing investors to diversify their portfolios with physical precious metals. The coin's global recognition and the prestige of the Mexican Mint—the oldest mint in the Americas—ensure strong liquidity in the international market. For serious numismatists, the Libertad represents more than just silver content; it embodies Mexico's artistic tradition, historical narrative, and cultural heritage in a single, beautifully crafted piece that continues to captivate collectors worldwide.