The Resplandor de México pesos , minted between 1918 and 1945 , are among the most iconic coins in Mexican numismatics . Their distinctive design, featuring a radiant Phrygian cap and the motto "LIBERTAD" (Liberty) on the reverse, gives them unparalleled historical and artistic value. Below, we will explore their history, characteristics, and current value in the collectors' market.
A reflection of Mexico's history
After the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920) , the country faced a severe economic crisis. To restore confidence in the currency and replace the devalued banknotes from the war, the government of Venustiano Carranza promoted the minting of silver coins. Thus were born the Resplandor Pesos , divided into two series:
- First series (1918-1919): They contained 80% silver (.800 fineness) and were designed by Rafael Mendez.
- Second series (1920-1945): Purity was reduced to 72% silver (.720 fineness) to address resource scarcity and silver price volatility.
These coins circulated both within and outside the country, becoming very popular in markets such as China and the United States.
Technical characteristics and design
The Resplandor Weights have a diameter of 34 mm , variable weight depending on the series ( 18.13 g in the first and 16.66 g in the second ) and a grooved edge of 56 lines to prevent counterfeits.
Obverse: A national symbol
The obverse features the National Coat of Arms of Mexico , depicting an eagle devouring a snake perched on a prickly pear cactus. This design, based on the official 1916 version by Antonio Gómez Rodríguez , is surrounded by the inscription “ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS” (United Mexican States) and a wreath of oak and laurel.
Reverse: The iconic glow
The reverse side is what gives these coins their name, featuring a radiant Phrygian cap and the inscription “LIBERTAD” (Liberty) . It also displays the face value “UN PESO” (One Peso) , the year of minting, and the mint mark “M ,” indicating its production at the Mexican Mint.
Changes in purity and their numismatic impact
The decision to reduce the amount of silver in 1920 allowed for the minting of more coins with less metal, preventing its melting down and illegal export. Throughout its production, some years stand out for their mintage volume:
- Highest mintage: 1932 (50,770,000 pieces)
- Lowest mintage: 1918 (3,050,000 pieces), making it one of the most valuable for collectors.
Current market value
The numismatic value of the Resplandor Peso varies depending on its condition and rarity. Uncirculated pieces in MS65 grade can exceed $700 USD , while the more common circulated ones are usually valued at around $500 USD.
The Resplandor Pesos are not just silver pieces, but witnesses to a period of transformation in Mexico . Their symbolic design and history make them especially attractive to collectors and historians. Below is the complete table of mintings:
| Year and Mint (Purity) | Coinage |
| 1918 M (.800) | 3,050,000 |
| 1919 M (.800) | 6,151,000 |
| 1920 M (.720) | 8,830,000 |
| 1921 M (.720) | 5,480,000 |
| 1922 M (.720) | 35,280,000 |
| 1923 M (.720) | 35,280,000 |
| 1924 M (.720) | 33,060,000 |
| 1925 M (.720) | 9,160,000 |
| 1926 M (.720) | 28,840,000 |
| 1927 M (.720) | 5,060,000 |
| 1932 M (.720) | 50,770,000 |
| 1933 M (.720) | 43,920,000 |
| 1934 M (.720) | 22,070,000 |
| 1935 M (.720) | 8,050,000 |
| 1938 M (.720) | 30,000,000 |
| 1940 M (.720) | 20,000,000 |
| 1943 M (.720) | 47,662,000 |
| 1944 M (.720) | 39,522,000 |
| 1945 M (.720) | 37,300,000 |
If you'd like to learn more about these coins, we invite you to download our complete guide with detailed information on variants, prices, and rarities. Don't miss it! Click the button below to download the complete guide:
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