Coin Identifier
Mexico 20 Pesos (Cultura Maya) — obverse
Obverse
Mexico 20 Pesos (Cultura Maya) — reverse
Reverse
20 Pesos

Mexico 20 Pesos (Cultura Maya)

Mexico - Banco de México · 1982

A large copper-nickel coin featuring the Mexican National Emblem on one side and a Mayan ball player on the other.

Country
Mexico - Banco de México
Year
1982
Denomination
20 Pesos
Metal
Copper-Nickel (75% Copper, 25% Nickel)

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Overview

A large copper-nickel coin featuring the Mexican National Emblem on one side and a Mayan ball player on the other.

Historical significance

Issued during a period of high inflation in Mexico in the early 1980s, this coin commemorates the Mayan culture. It was demonetized in the early 1990s following the introduction of the 'Nuevo Peso'.

Obverse (front)

The national coat of arms of Mexico depicting a Mexican golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus devouring a snake. Legend: "ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS".

Reverse (back)

A Mayan ball player (Jugador de Pelota) in ceremonial attire. The denomination "$20" is prominent. Legends: "CULTURA MAYA", the year "1982", and the "Mo" mint mark.

Estimated value

$0.50 - $1.50 in typical circulated condition; $3.00 - $6.00 in uncirculated (MS) condition. Its value is largely numismatic as it has no precious metal content.

What drives this coin's value

Condition and eye appeal. Because it was minted in massive quantities, only examples in high-grade Mint State or with errors carry a premium.

Grade assessment

Fine/Very Fine (Circulated). The coin shows heavy dark toning and surface wear on high points.

Mintage & rarity

552,152,000 (1982) - Very Common

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for the incuse edge lettering and correct weight. These are rarely counterfeited due to their low face value and commonality.

Notable varieties & errors

Mostly standard, though double-die errors are occasionally reported by specialists.

Similar coins

The 1980-1984 50 Pesos (Coyolxauhqui) is similar in size and metal, but features a different Aztec deity.

Care & preservation

Handle by the edges; do not attempt to clean the heavy dark toning (oxidation) visible as it can lower the value. Store in a PVC-free flip or coin holder.