CVC & Collectables presents a historically significant 1866-Mo Mexico Gold 20 Pesos was struck at the Mexico City Mint during the reign of Emperor Maximilian I, one of the most historically significant figures in Mexican numismatics. Produced during the short-lived Second Mexican Empire, this impressive gold coin features Maximilian’s portrait and the elaborate imperial coat of arms. Struck in 87.5% gold, this example is certified NGC UNC Details – Cleaned, retaining uncirculated design detail despite evidence of cleaning.
Coin Highlights
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Country: Mexico
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Year: 1866
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Denomination: 20 Pesos
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Ruler: Emperor Maximilian I (1864–1867)
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Mint: Mexico City (Mo)
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Reference: KM-389
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Composition: 87.5% Gold, 12.5% Copper
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Weight: 33.841 Grams
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Actual Gold Weight: 0.952 Troy oz
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Diameter: 35 mm
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Obverse: Right-facing portrait of Emperor Maximilian I
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Reverse: Crowned imperial coat of arms supported by griffins, with crossed swords and imperial decorations
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Grade: NGC UNC Details
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Condition Notation: Cleaned
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Certification Number: 3936789-001
Design & Devices
Obverse: Features a detailed right-facing portrait of Emperor Maximilian I, displaying his distinctive beard and formal imperial appearance. The surrounding inscription reads MAXIMILIANO EMPERADOR, identifying him as Emperor of Mexico.
Reverse: Displays the ornate coat of arms of the Second Mexican Empire, featuring a crowned central shield, crossed swords, and supporting griffins. The surrounding inscriptions include IMPERIO MEXICANO and the imperial motto EQUIDAD EN LA JUSTICIA, meaning Equity in Justice. The denomination, date, and Mexico City mintmark appear along the perimeter.
Historical Significance
The 1866 Gold 20 Pesos was issued during the Second Mexican Empire (1864–1867), a brief and turbulent period in Mexican history.
With the support of Napoleon III of France, Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian was installed as Emperor of Mexico in 1864. His government faced persistent resistance from republican forces loyal to President Benito Juárez.
By 1866, French military support was being withdrawn, weakening Maximilian’s government. The empire ultimately collapsed in 1867, making its gold coinage an important surviving artifact of this short-lived monarchy.
Condition & Collectibility
This example has been certified NGC UNC Details – Cleaned, indicating that the coin retains uncirculated-level design detail but has undergone cleaning that prevents a numerical Mint State grade.
The coin exhibits a detailed portrait of Maximilian, intricate imperial reverse devices, and a brilliant gold appearance.
With its substantial gold content, historical significance, and connection to the Second Mexican Empire, the 1866-Mo Gold 20 Pesos is a desirable issue for collectors of Mexican gold, world coinage, and nineteenth-century imperial history.
