Mexico will introduce updated 10 and 20-peso coins into circulation throughout 2026, following recent legislative changes to the nation’s Monetary Law. These updates, approved by lawmakers last December, are designed to lower production costs and increase currency security while maintaining the familiar aesthetic of Mexican coinage.
The Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP) confirmed that the 10-peso coin will undergo a material transition to address fluctuating metal prices. While the coin’s physical dimensions and engravings will remain unchanged, the central core may now be manufactured using nickel-coated steel. This shift from more expensive alloys allows for a more sustainable production process and the inclusion of advanced security features, such as unique electromagnetic signatures.
Despite the change in composition, the new 10-peso coins are designed to be fully compatible with existing automatic payment machines and coin sorters. Current 10-peso coins will remain legal tender and will continue to circulate alongside the new versions until the Bank of Mexico eventually decides to withdraw them.
The 20-peso denomination is undergoing a more visible transformation, with the new standardized design scheduled to begin production toward the end of February 2026.
The new version of the coin will feature a dodecagonal (12-sided) shape and a discontinuous reeded edge. Its primary motif will depict the Temple of Kukulkán, located at the Chichén Itzá archaeological site in Yucatán. This landmark was selected to honor Mexico’s cultural heritage as recognized by UNESCO.
Beyond its artistic updates, the 20-peso coin includes several practical improvements. The reverse side will feature larger text for the “$20” and “twenty pesos” labels to assist senior citizens and individuals with visual impairments. Advanced security remains a priority for the new 20-peso piece, which incorporates microtext reading “CHICHÉN ITZÁ, TEMPLE OF KUKULKÁN–CULTURAL HERITAGE” and a latent image of the number 20 that becomes visible when tilted.
These updates represent a broader effort by the Mexican government to modernize the national currency. By adopting nickel-plated steel and standardized designs, the Mint aims to protect the economy against counterfeiting while ensuring that the manufacturing process remains efficient in a changing global metal market.
We need your support to keep Banderas News thriving. As more and more news outlets resort to paywalls, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide free, quality journalism to Puerto Vallarta residents and visitors. Your contribution helps us maintain this commitment and continue serving our community.