"Gold Centenarians: The Mexican Option for Investing in Uncertain Times"

In the world of investments, gold has established itself as a safe haven asset, especially during times of economic uncertainty. In Mexico, one of the most popular options for those interested in investing in this precious metal is the centenario, a coin with a rich history and intrinsic value that attracts both investors and collectors. The gold centenario was first issued in 1921 as part of the celebrations for the centennial of Mexico's Independence. Made of .900 gold, this coin contains 90% pure gold and has endured over the years, symbolizing cultural heritage and national patrimony. On the obverse of the coin, one can see a national shield that evokes the country’s history, while the reverse features the iconic Winged Victory, which is found on the famous Angel of Independence, surrounded by the majestic Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl volcanoes. The minting of the centenario was halted in 1931 but resumed in 1943 due to the growing demand for gold coins. Over the years, centenarios have served not only as a medium of exchange but also as a secure investment. This is particularly relevant in a global context where market fluctuations can generate uncertainty. The value of a centenario, however, is not fixed and can vary daily, as it depends on the price of gold in the international market and the exchange rate between the Mexican peso and the US dollar. For example, in August 2023, the price of gold per ounce reached historic highs, which directly impacted the cost of these coins. This price dynamism is a crucial factor to consider for those wishing to invest in centenarios. In addition to the centenario, Mexico has other gold coins, such as the Azteca and the piece representing Miguel Hidalgo. Each of these coins has its own history and characteristics. For instance, the Azteca, minted in 1917, features an image of the eagle, which has been a national symbol since 1825. On the other hand, the coin honoring Hidalgo, the leader of the independence movement, was introduced in the context of the monetary reform of 1905. Since the year 2000, the Bank of Mexico has launched a new series called Libertad Oro, which stands out for being made of 99.9% pure gold. This series also includes the Winged Victory, but with a renewed design that offers a new perspective on this emblematic symbol of independence. For those interested in acquiring centenarios, the Bank of Mexico has authorized a series of distributors that facilitate this purchase. Among them are the Casa de Moneda de México, the Interactive Museum of Economics, and several banking institutions. It is important to mention that purchases at the Casa de Moneda are made exclusively via electronic transfer, and the hours of operation are limited, requiring potential buyers to plan their visit accordingly. The Casa de Moneda, located on Paseo de la Reforma and with branches in other states, is one of the most accessible points for physically purchasing centenarios. Meanwhile, the Interactive Museum of Economics, in the Historic Center of Mexico City, also offers the possibility of purchase, although only in person. This highlights the importance of accessibility in acquiring these valuable assets. In conclusion, gold centenarios are not only a piece of monetary history but also represent an investment opportunity in an asset that has proven resilient to economic crises. With their rich cultural heritage and value in gold, these coins continue to be an attractive option for both experienced investors and those looking to diversify their portfolio amid an uncertain economic landscape.