Embarking into the precious metals market invites a comparison between two of the most coveted coins: the Mexican Libertad and the American Eagle. Each holds a unique place in the hearts of collectors and investors alike, embodying the rich history and economic stature of their respective nations.
When comparing these coins we considered purity, IRA eligibility, the mints, liquidity, demand, total cost to own, and appearance.
Mexican Libertad vs America Eagle: Purity
The Mexican Libertad and the American Eagle are popular silver and gold bullion coins produced by their respective mints. In terms of gold purity, the Mexican Libertad gold coin is purer than the American Eagle gold coin. The American Eagle includes small amounts of silver and copper to increase its durability. For silver, both coins have the same purity.
Here is a comparison based on the specifications of these coins:
Gold
- Mexican Libertad: .999 gold.
- American Eagle: .9167 gold.
Silver
- Mexican Libertad: .999 silver.
- American Eagle: .999 silver.
Mexican Libertad vs America Eagle: Specifications
| Mexican Libertad | American Eagle | |
| Mint | La Casa de Moneda de México | U.S. Mint |
| First Year Minted | 1982 | 1986 |
| Silver Purity | .999 | .999 |
| Gold Purity | .999 | .9167 |
| Availability | Limited | Widely Available |
| Demand | High in North and Central America | High |
| Obverse | Winged Victory statue | Walking Liberty |
| Reverse | Mexican coat of arms | Eagles |
Precious Metals IRAs
The gold and silver Mexican Libertad and the American Eagle have high enough purity levels to be eligible for precious metals IRAs.
Mexican Libertad
The Gold Mexican Libertad is .999 pure, making it eligible for inclusion in a Precious Metals IRA. The IRS requires gold to be .995 pure or better to be included in such an IRA, so the Gold Libertad surpasses this benchmark.
The Silver Mexican Libertad is also .999 pure, meeting the IRS requirement for silver to be .999 pure or better for inclusion in a Precious Metals IRA.
American Eagle
Unlike other gold bullion coins, which need a .995 purity or better to be included in a Precious Metals IRA, the Gold American Eagle is an exception to this rule. Despite its .9167 purity, it is eligible for inclusion in IRAs due to its status as an official coin of the U.S. government.
The Silver American Eagle has a purity of .999 (or 99.9% pure silver), making it eligible for Precious Metals IRAs.
Always consult with a financial advisor or tax professional when considering a Precious Metals IRA to ensure compliance with all regulations and make the best decisions for your financial situation.
The Mints
The Mexican Mint is the oldest mint in the Americas with nearly 500 years in operation. The U.S. Mint is over 200 years old and has four locations.
Mexican Mint
The Mexican Mint, known as “La Casa de Moneda de México” in Spanish, is the national mint of Mexico and the mint that produces the Libertad. The Mexican Mint was established in 1535 by Spanish decree and is the oldest mint in the Americas. Its creation was driven by the vast amounts of precious metals, particularly silver, extracted from mines in the newly conquered territories of the Spanish Empire in the New World.
The mint operates with modern facilities and employs contemporary coining technologies. Despite its modernization, the mint holds onto its legacy and plays a pivotal role in Mexico’s numismatic history.
U.S. Mint
The U.S. Mint is the federal agency responsible for producing coinage for the United States. Established in 1792, its primary mission is to manufacture and distribute circulating coins to facilitate daily commerce.
Besides producing everyday coinage, the U.S. Mint also manufactures numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins, Congressional Gold Medals, and silver, gold, and platinum bullion coins.
The Mint operates several facilities across the U.S., including those in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point.
Mexican Libertad vs America Eagle: Liquidity
Both coins are highly liquid in their home countries. The American Eagle has a broader global recognition. If you are in a random city anywhere, you might find selling an American Eagle at or near its intrinsic value slightly easier than a Mexican Libertad.
That said, both are excellent choices for bullion investors. The best choice depends on where you plan to store or sell the coins and your preference regarding design and national origin.
Mexican Libertad vs America Eagle: Market Demand
The Mexican Libertad and the American Eagle have strong market demands in their home countries. The American Eagle typically sees higher global demand due to its widespread recognition and the economic influence of the U.S. on international markets.
However, it is essential to remember that market demand can shift based on numerous factors. For instance, if the U.S. Mint had a year with an exceptionally high mintage of Eagles, and the Mexican Mint had a low mintage year for Libertads, that rarity factor could increase demand for Libertads among collectors for that specific year.
Total Cost to Own
By far, within the U.S., the American Eagle is more affordably priced. If you are looking to purchase based on bullion value, the American Eagle may be more attractive. If you are shopping for numismatic reasons, both are appealing options.
Both Gold Eagles and Gold Libertads offer fractional sizes that can be a more affordable way to purchase these coins. The Gold Eagles come in 1/2 ounce, 1/4 ounce and 1/10th ounce sizes, while the Gold Libertads come in all those sizes, as well as a 1/20th ounce version.
Remember that no matter what coin you choose, other costs exist, such as taxes, shipping, storage, insurance, and premiums.
Mexican Libertad vs America Eagle: Design
Mexican Libertad
The obverse features an image of the Winged Victory statue, which is a symbol of Mexican independence, with the volcanoes Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl in the background. The reverse shows the Mexican coat of arms, which includes an eagle holding a snake in its beak and talon, perched atop a cactus.
American Eagle
The obverse of the Silver Eagle features Adolph A. Weinman’s “Walking Liberty” design, while the Gold Eagle features Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ full-length figure of Liberty with flowing hair. The reverse of both coins depicts an eagle – the Silver Eagle showcases an eagle beneath 13 small stars, and the Gold Eagle displays a male eagle carrying an olive branch with a nest of eaglets in the background.
Which Coin is More Attractive?
Both coins are beautifully designed and carry symbolic meaning. Some people may find the intricate historical and cultural designs of the Libertad more appealing, while others may gravitate towards the American Eagle for its embodiment of American values and iconography.
Preferences may be Influenced by the Type of Buyer
The type of buyer plays a significant role in the preference for the Mexican Libertad or the American Eagle. The preference for the Mexican Libertad or the American Eagle is influenced by the type of buyer and their objectives, whether they are financial, historical, aesthetic, or personal.
Investors
Given the global recognition and reputation of the American Eagle, many investors may prefer it for its liquidity. However, some may diversify with Libertads, especially if they believe this coin has specific demand or growth potential. Since the Libertad has a limited mintage, it tends to appreciate more than the American Eagle.
Collectors
Preferences can vary widely. Some collectors might be drawn to specific editions of the Libertad, especially if they are of limited mintage or have a unique design. Others might lean towards special editions or proof versions of the American Eagle.
Patriotic Buyers
A patriotic Mexican buyer may gravitate towards the Libertad, given its deep-rooted symbolism in Mexican culture. Conversely, someone with strong ties to the U.S. may prefer the American Eagle for its embodiment of American ideals.
Gift Buyers
The choice might depend on the recipient’s connection or the gifter’s intention. For instance, a Libertad might be gifted to commemorate a trip to Mexico or to someone of Mexican heritage.
Historians or Cultural Enthusiasts
Those intrigued by Aztec legends, Mexican history, or the symbolism in the Libertad’s design might prefer the Mexican coin. Meanwhile, those interested in American history and values might lean towards the American Eagle.
Diversifiers
These buyers might want both coins to ensure they have a broad range of bullion, capturing different designs, histories, and market dynamics.
Mexican Libertad vs. American Eagle Summarized
We compared these two coins using six criteria, including purity, demand, liquidity, and cost. Both are great coins. Preference may come down to personal choice and where you are buying from.
| Factors Considered | How They Compare |
| Purity | Gold Libertad is more pure |
| IRAs | All are eligible |
| Mint | Both mints are reputable |
| Liquidity | Eagles easier to sell in the U.S. |
| Demand | Eagles are more in demand in the U.S. |
| Total Cost to Own | American Eagles are more affordable |
| Appearance | Subjective |
The Mexican Libertad and the American Eagle are reputable choices for gold investors and collectors, and the preference often boils down to personal or regional inclinations.
When determining investment choices, consider your personal financial goals, comfort with risk, and the current market landscape. Previous outcomes do not guarantee future performance. It is essential to seek advice from a financial expert before finalizing any investment choices.
