Mexican Peso Rings - History of the Peso Coin and Its Transformation into Jewelry

The History and Significance of Mexican Peso Rings

Mexican peso coins have a long and fascinating history dating back to the early 19th century. The first peso coins were minted in 1821 following Mexico's independence from Spain. The coins were modeled after the Spanish 8 reales and had similar dimensions. Over the years, the peso underwent several design changes reflecting Mexico's complex political and economic evolution.

By the mid-20th century, the peso gained recognition as one of the most iconic coins in the world. The 1921-1947 peso is especially famous for its beautiful Aztec calendar design on the reverse. Weighing 27 grams and measuring 39mm, it contains 90% silver and is commonly known as the "azteca de plata" (silver Aztec).

The Meaning Behind the Aztec Calendar Design

The Aztec calendar stone depicted on the reverse of the coin highlights Mexico's pre-Columbian history and culture. The elaborately carved calendar stone was originally created in the 15th century and its image on the peso is a source of national pride.

The central face depicts the sun god Tonatiuh surrounded by symbols representing the 20 days of the Aztec month. Additional rings contain hieroglyphs denoting the 20 Aztec weeks and images of important deities. The inscription translates to "fourth creation sun" signifying the Aztec belief in cyclical eras.

The 1964 Peso

In 1964, the Mexican peso underwent a major redesign. The new peso reduced the silver content to 72% and featured Jose Maria Morelos, a leader in Mexico's independence movement, on the obverse. The reverse kept the eagle and snake symbol but removed the Aztec calendar.

The 1964 peso marked the transition to a more modern, simplified design. It also has lower mintage numbers than earlier pesos making it more scarce. These factors contribute to the 1964 peso's popularity with collectors and those looking for silver content.

Mexican Pesos Transformed into Rings

Mexican pesos, especially the 1921-1947 issues, are highly valued by coin collectors and silver stackers. Their iconic designs also make them ideal for jewelry and art. Transforming a peso coin into a ring is a creative way to repurpose and wear a piece of history.

The Process of Creating Peso Rings

The process of turning a peso coin into a ring takes skill, precision, and an artistic eye. First, the center of the coin is carved out to create space for the finger. The coin's edges are also smoothed and rounded. Precision tools help remove the material while minimizing damage to the coin's design.

Next, a jeweler carefully cuts and solders the coin ends together to form a band. The soldered seam is then polished to create a smooth finish. For decorated bands, artisans may add further engravings or set stones around the peso's original design.

Customization Creates Unique Rings

After the basic peso ring is crafted, customers can choose customization options to make it their own. Engraving initials, names or dates gives the ring personal significance. Setting birthstones or diamonds also enhances the band's beauty.

More elaborate customizations include carving intricate Aztec or Mexican cultural designs into the coin's surface. This requires great skill but results in stunning artistic rings. The Maltese cross pattern is another popular custom design.

Peso Rings for Collectors and Jewelry Lovers

For coin collectors, a peso ring lets them turn their favorite coin into wearable art. The rings preserve details like Lady Liberty, eagles, Aztec calendars and portraits beautifully. They allow admirers to keep a piece of history close at hand.

For other jewelry lovers, the silver content and handcrafted detail make peso rings appealing. The rings have vintage, bohemian allure and their custom engravings add personal meaning. They make truly one-of-a-kind accessories.

Mexican peso rings offer the chance to own a unique piece of numismatic history, Mexican culture and jewelry artistry. Their creation from iconic coins gives them incredible allure. With custom details, each ring tells a special story, making peso rings a compelling choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

FAQs

What years of Mexican pesos are typically used to make rings?

The most popular pesos for rings are the 1921-1947 issues featuring the Aztec calendar. The 1921 peso is the classic but other years like 1945 are also frequently used. The 1964 peso is another popular choice.

What's the silver content in Mexican peso rings?

The 1921-1947 pesos contain 90% silver. The 1964 pesos have 72% silver content since that was reduced that year. So peso rings will be sterling or coin silver depending on the year.

How are the pesos joined together to form a ring band?

The peso is carefully cut, the edges rounded, and then soldered together using silver solder. A jeweler solders the ends together to complete the band shape.

Can stones or other embellishments be added to the ring?

Yes, stones like birthstones or diamonds can be set into the peso ring for added sparkle. Engravings like names, dates or designs can also be etched to customize the band.

Do the rings come in different sizes?

Peso rings can be made in any ring size. The coin will be stretched or compressed slightly to fit the desired size. The band can also be sized over time if needed.