1987 Mexico 5 Onzas Ixtaccihuati Popocatepeti Libertad Proof

Key Details:

• Country: Mexico
• Denomination: 5 Onzas (5 ounces)
• Composition: .999 Fine Silver
• Weight: 5 Troy Ounces
• Diameter: ~65mm
• Finish: Proof
• Mint: Casa de Moneda de México (Mexico Mint)

Design Features:

Obverse:

• Depicts the iconic Winged Victory (Angel of Independence), one of Mexico’s most recognizable symbols.
• In the background, the Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl volcanoes are prominently displayed, adding depth and historical significance to the design.
• Inscriptions:
  • “5 ONZAS PLATA PURA 1987 LEY .999” (indicating weight, year, and silver purity).

Reverse:

• Features the Mexican Coat of Arms, which consists of an eagle perched on a cactus devouring a snake, a symbol rooted in Aztec legend.
• Surrounding the coat of arms is the inscription:
  • “ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS” (United Mexican States).

Historical & Collector Significance:

1. Volcanic Legends – Iztaccíhuatl & Popocatépetl:

   • The design pays homage to the Aztec legend of the two volcanoes, representing a warrior (Popocatépetl) and his fallen lover (Iztaccíhuatl).
   • This romantic and tragic story has deep cultural significance in Mexico, making the coin highly collectible.

2. Early Year of the Libertad Series:

   • The 1987 5 oz Proof Libertad is one of the earlier issues in the large-format Libertad series, making it highly desirable among collectors.
   • Proof versions of Libertads, especially from the 1980s and early 1990s, tend to have much lower mintages than their bullion counterparts.

3. Investment & Collectibility:

   • With 5 oz of .999 fine silver, this coin has intrinsic precious metal value.
   • The low mintage proof finish and historical design make it more valuable than a standard bullion piece.
   • Early proof Libertads often command a premium in the secondary market due to their rarity.

Conclusion:

The 1987 Mexico 5 Onzas Libertad Proof is a highly collectible and historically significant coin, combining beautiful design, mythology, and precious metal investment value. Due to its limited mintage and early year in the Libertad series, it is a sought-after piece for both Libertad collectors and silver investors alike.