Libertad
Also: Mexican Libertad, Onza Libertad, Plata Libertad, Oro Libertad
The Libertad is Mexico's state investment coin in gold or silver, struck by the Casa de Moneda de México and recognised worldwide as a bullion coin.
The Libertad is Mexico's official precious-metal investment coin and ranks among the best-known bullion coins in the world. It is issued by the Casa de Moneda de México — the oldest mint still operating in the western hemisphere, founded in 1535. The name "Libertad" (Spanish for liberty) is a statement in itself: the obverse carries the Mexican coat of arms, while the reverse shows the winged Angel of Independence set against the volcanic backdrop of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl.
Features and denominations
Both versions — silver and gold — are struck to a fineness of 999/1000, matching the standard of modern bullion coins.
| Version | Denominations (troy ounces) | Fineness |
|---|---|---|
| Plata Libertad (silver) | 1/20, 1/10, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 5 oz | 999/1000 |
| Oro Libertad (gold) | 1/20, 1/10, 1/4, 1/2, 1 oz | 999/1000 (since 1991) |
The 1-ounce silver Libertad is the most common denomination and, priced close to the silver price, appeals to investors and collectors alike. In addition, limited proof editions in mirror finish have appeared for years, which can command premiums for collectors above the plain melt value.
Special features and market standing
The Libertad is legal tender in Mexico with a symbolic face value (the 1 oz silver version carries 10 pesos), far below its metal value and irrelevant to trading — much like the American Eagle. Unlike the Krugerrand, which carries no face value at all, the Libertad continues the Mexican onza tradition as a state-recognised weight coin.
Material value (silver) = weight in troy ounces × current silver price (per troy oz)
= 1 oz × spot price + premium (agio)
The premium over the spot price on the Libertad varies with vintage and condition. Low-mintage years — particularly the early 1990s — trade among collectors at clear premiums and edge into numismatic territory.
Authenticity and testing
Like all high-value silver coins, the Libertad should be checked for weight and dimensions. The Coin Weight Check helps you compare the nominal weight against the actual weight. Where there is any doubt, a ping test or a professional density measurement is also advisable.
Tax treatment in Ireland
In Ireland the silver Libertad, being a silver coin, is subject to the standard VAT rate of 23% (investment gold is VAT-exempt under the VAT Consolidation Act 2010; silver is not), unless the dealer's margin scheme applies. A private individual's gain on selling bullion is liable to Capital Gains Tax at 33%, after the annual personal exemption of EUR 1,270, with no holding-period relief. This is not tax advice — please discuss your own situation with a qualified adviser.
In brief
The Libertad blends Mexican heritage with a solid bullion standard: 999 fineness, a state guarantee and one of the oldest mints in the world make it a genuine alternative to the Krugerrand or the Maple Leaf — with the extra appeal of a handful of sought-after low-mintage years for collectors.