Mexican Libertad - 1 Troy Oz, Pure Silver

The Mexican Libertad - A Symbol of Freedom from the Oldest Mint in the Americas

Silver has played a major role in the history of Mexico. The Native People of Mexico used the countries abundant precious metals long before European conquerors arrived, drawn by the riches. Today Mexico continues to be a major producer of both gold and silver. Silver has been used for centuries in Mexico's coinage.

The silver Libertad, a one troy ounce pure silver coin, is produced by La Casa de Moneda de Mexico in Mexico City. It is the oldest mint in either north or south America. The Casa de Moneda was founded in 1535 by Antonio de Mendoza, the regional Viceroy, under decree from the Spanish Crown. Coins produced there, such as the silver 8 real, were among the most widely circulated in the Americas and in Asia until the 18th century.

The Libertad features the Angel of Independence. The design was modeled after the famous golden statue -- the Monumento a la Indepencia -- located on Mexico City's Paseo de la Reforma in the city's downtown. The monument commemorates victory in Mexico's war for independence from Spain. The Angel holds a laurel crown in one hand -- a symbol of victory. In the other hand is a broken chain why symbolizes freedom.

The stunning silver Libertad offers:

• One troy oz of .999 pure silver
• Limited Mintages
• Guaranteed for weight and purity by Banco de Mexico
• A great option for your self directed IRA

The reverse side of this beautiful coin carries Mexico's National Shield in two different designs which vary based on the date of issue. Mexico's shield, or coat of arms, is a golden eagle perched upon a prickly pear cactus as it devours a rattlesnake. Coins minted prior to 1997 feature the shield with text that reads "Estados Unidos Mexicanos" (United Mexican States) located just above. Coins issued more recently are stamped with the modern National Shield at the center surrounded by 10 earlier versions from the Nation's history.

The Angel of Victory dominates the coin's obverse. In the background are two volcanoes -- Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. These exact design will varies based on date, though the major elements are unchanged from year to year. The reverse is also where you can find the coins weight, purity and date of issue.