Overview
A large-format cupro-nickel 50-peso coin featuring the decapitated Aztec moon goddess, Coyolxauhqui. This design commemorates the 1978 discovery of the Great Temple (Templo Mayor) in the heart of Mexico City.
Preliminary identification
Mexico 50 Pesos 'Coyolxauhqui' Coin, 1982
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
In 1978, electrical workers in Mexico City accidentally struck a massive stone disk. It revealed the goddess Coyolxauhqui, sparking a massive excavation. This coin was minted to celebrate that specific archaeological miracle.
Maker / Origin
The Casa de Moneda de México is the oldest mint in the Americas, established in 1535. It is world-renowned for its artistic coinage, blending modern currency with Mexico's deep indigenous heritage.
Condition & Value
The coin shows signs of circulation with minor surface scratches and softening of the high points on the goddess's figure. There is no significant corrosion, but the lack of original mint luster places it in a standard 'circulated' category. Condition reduces value by roughly 70% compared to a graded mint-state example.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.