Mexico to Feature Chichen Itza’s Kukulkan Temple on New 20-Peso Coin

Mexico City — Mexico will redesign its 20-peso coin to feature the Kukulkan Temple at Chichen Itza, highlighting the country’s Mayan cultural heritage. The new coin will also be smaller and lighter than current versions.

The reform authorizes a new design that includes the image of the Kukulkan Temple, a site declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. According to the legislation, the new coin aims to showcase Mexico’s cultural richness and the architectural legacy of Mayan civilization, while fostering national pride and cultural identity through an everyday monetary symbol.

The minting of the new 20-peso coins will begin 30 days after the decree officially takes effect. Meanwhile, current 20-peso coins will remain valid and can be used normally until the Bank of Mexico determines their progressive withdrawal from circulation.

The current 20-peso coin design features the King of Coliman at the center, Colima dancing dogs to the right, and the silhouette of the Colima volcano in the background. It has been in circulation since July 19, 2024.

For the 10-peso coin, authorities established that it will be minted with a new alloy of nickel-coated steel and an iron core, aiming to reduce production costs amid rising copper prices. Copper represents 65% of its composition and has increased more than 80% over the last five years.

The change will focus solely on manufacturing materials, which will reduce costs without altering the coin’s value, size, or design. This adjustment will allow more coins to remain available in circulation while maintaining functionality without impacting Mexican consumers.