2022 2 oz Silver Mexican Libertad – BU

The Winged Victory: A Symbol of Mexican Independence

The story of the Mexican Libertad begins with a powerful symbol of freedom that has endured for over a century. When Mexico celebrated the centennial of its independence from Spain in 1921, the Mexican Mint commissioned talented engineer and engraver Emilio del Moral to create a coin that would embody the nation's hard-fought liberty. His creation, the Centenario gold coin, featured the iconic Winged Victory statue (El Ángel de la Independencia) that would later become the centerpiece of the beloved Libertad series. Initially struck between 1921 and 1931, the Centenario saw renewed production during the tumultuous years leading up to World War II as demand for gold coins surged globally.

The imagery adorning the 2022 2 oz Silver Mexican Libertad traces its lineage directly to del Moral's original vision, preserved and celebrated by the Mexican Mint when they launched the Libertad series in 1982. The design carries profound cultural significance, depicting national emblems cherished by the Mexican people. The Winged Victory stands majestically against the backdrop of two of Mexico's most significant mountains – Iztaccíhuatl and the volcano Popocatépetl – landmarks that are themselves steeped in Aztec legend.

This legend tells the tale of Princess Iztaccíhuatl and her warrior love Popocatépetl, whose tragic story of love and loss is immortalized in the Mexican landscape. According to ancient lore, Iztaccíhuatl's father sent Popocatépetl to war, promising his daughter's hand upon the warrior's return. A rival falsely reported Popocatépetl's death, causing the heartbroken princess to die of grief. When Popocatépetl returned to find his beloved deceased, he carried her body to the mountains and built a funeral pyre. The gods, moved by this display of devotion, transformed them into mountains so they could be together for eternity.

The Libertad design evolved significantly in 1996 when the Mexican Mint modified the reverse to showcase a three-quarter view of the Angel of Independence, enhancing the coin's visual impact. This change, along with an increase in diameter from 36mm to 40mm for the one-ounce version, established the modern aesthetic that collectors worldwide have come to treasure. The 2022 2 oz Silver Libertad continues this proud tradition, combining artistic excellence with exquisite craftsmanship.

For numismatists and investors alike, the Mexican Libertad represents more than just a silver bullion coin. It embodies Mexico's resilient spirit, cultural heritage, and artistic tradition. Each Libertad carries with it centuries of history – from the struggle for independence to the nation's emergence as a producer of some of the world's most coveted precious metal coins. The 2022 2 oz Silver Libertad represents another chapter in this ongoing legacy, continuing to captivate collectors with its stunning beauty and historical significance.

Design Features

The obverse of the 2022 2 oz Silver Mexican Libertad displays a masterfully executed sculptural relief of Mexico's National Shield, surrounded by a ring of historical coats of arms. The central image features Mexico's revered national emblem – a golden eagle perched upon a prickly pear cactus, clutching a serpent in its beak and talons. This powerful symbol has represented Mexico since ancient Aztec times when, according to legend, it guided the Aztec people to the location where they would build their capital, Tenochtitlan. The surrounding historical coats of arms represent different eras in Mexico's political evolution, creating a visual timeline of the nation's identity.

The reverse of the coin presents what many consider to be one of the most beautiful designs in modern numismatics. It features the iconic Winged Victory statue (El Ángel de la Independencia) in a dynamic three-quarter view that showcases the figure's dramatic posture and flowing robes. This allegorical female figure holds a laurel wreath in her right hand, symbolizing victory, and broken chains in her left, representing freedom from oppression. Behind her rise the majestic silhouettes of two of Mexico's most storied mountains – Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl – adding depth to the composition while connecting the modern coin to ancient Mexican mythology. The entire design is encircled by the inscription "2 ONZAS PLATA PURA" (2 ounces pure silver), the year of mintage, and "LEY .999" indicating the coin's purity.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 2 oz
• Manufacturer: Banco de Mexico
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Mexico's National Shield surrounded by historical coats of arms.
• Reverse: Winged Victory statue against the backdrop of the Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl mountains.

Investment Appeal

The 2022 2 oz Silver Mexican Libertad offers exceptional investment potential for both seasoned numismatists and newcomers to precious metals collecting. With its impressive .999 fine silver content and guaranteed purity backed by the Banco de Mexico, this coin provides tangible wealth preservation in an uncertain economic climate. Unlike many government-issued bullion coins, Libertads typically have lower mintage figures, creating greater potential for premium appreciation over time as demand outpaces available supply.

As an IRA-eligible investment, the 2022 2 oz Libertad allows investors to diversify retirement portfolios with physical precious metals, potentially hedging against inflation and currency fluctuations. The coin's global recognition ensures strong liquidity, while its artistic merit and cultural significance add an aesthetic dimension that extends beyond mere metal value.

The 2 oz size represents an ideal middle ground for collectors and investors – substantial enough to make a meaningful addition to a portfolio yet more affordable than larger denominations. For the discerning collector, the 2022 release continues the proud tradition of one of North America's most historically significant and visually captivating coin series, making it not just a wise investment but a piece of living history that can be passed down through generations.