Gold Peso 1898 CN/MO MS 62

When this coin was minted, the Mexican Republic had recently regained control of Mexico after ending the Second Mexican Empire, which was instated by France. After his return to office, President Benito Juarez remained in power until he died in office in 1872. A short period of unrest followed, but ended with General Porfirio Diaz becoming president in 1876. The period from 1876 to 1911 is often called the Porfiriato, and is generally regarded as a dictatorship. During the Porfiriato, Mexico underwent modernization, with investments in infrastructure as well as the arts and sciences. The construction of railroads was especially transformative for the economy, as Mexico did not have a river system conducive to transportation and many roads were too dangerous to use during the rainy season. The public school system Juarez created was also expanded during this time. The Porfiriato ended as a result of the fraudulent 1910 elections, where Diaz was reported to have won nearly 99% of the vote despite candidate Francisco Madero’s popularity. Rebellion ensued, kicking off the Mexican Revolution.

Obverse: REPUBLICA MEXICANA 1888 (translation: Mexican Republic 1888) National arms; eagle with snake in beak standing on cactus in the middle of lake. Oak and laurel wreath at bottom

Reverse: Assayer's initial, fineness and mint at top. Value at center with oak and laurel wreath at bottom

Reference: KM 410