Mexican 10 Centavos (Pyramid Design)

Mexico (Banco de México / Casa de Moneda de México) · 1939

A small bronze Mexican coin featuring the national coat of arms on one side and an Aztec-inspired pyramid calendar design surrounding the denomination on the other.

Country: Mexico (Banco de México / Casa de Moneda de México)
Year: 1939
Denomination: 10 Centavos

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

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Overview

A small bronze Mexican coin featuring the national coat of arms on one side and an Aztec-inspired pyramid calendar design surrounding the denomination on the other.

Historical significance

Issued during a period of modernization and economic stability in Mexico following the post-revolutionary era under President Lázaro Cárdenas, utilizing iconic indigenous motifs to foster national identity.

Obverse (front)

The Mexican national coat of arms depicting a golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus, devouring a snake, surrounded by the legend 'ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS' with a wreath below.

Reverse (back)

The large numeral '10' with the 'M' mintmark above and 'CENTAVOS' below, encircled by a detailed Aztec pyramid/sun stone calendar motif and the date '1939' at the top.

Estimated value

$2 to $10 depending on wear and original luster

What drives this coin's value

Overall state of preservation, sharpness of the Aztec calendar details on the reverse, absence of environmental damage or corrosion, and eye appeal.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (clear details on both sides with moderate even circulation wear)

Mintage & rarity

Common for the date, millions minted, though nice circulated grades remain popular with world coin collectors.

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for correct weight, diameter, and magnetic properties (non-magnetic bronze). Counterfeits are rare for common date base metal world coins of this era due to low face value.

Notable varieties & errors

Minor repunched mint marks or date digits, though major distinct varieties are scarce for this specific year.

Similar coins

Other Mexican bronze centavos from the 1930s and 1940s, such as the 1 Centavo, 5 Centavos, and 20 Centavos featuring similar Aztec calendar and coat of arms motifs.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges using clean hands or cotton gloves. Store in a cool, dry environment in a PVC-free coin holder or flip. Never clean the coin, as harsh cleaning destroys original surfaces and drastically reduces collector value.