Mexican currency and the powerful history behind its designs

LEE YEON SIL Reporter

| 2026-02-28 15:14:53


In Mexico, our national currency is called the peso, and each bill has it own meaning and history. The designs represent important moments, people, and cultural symbols from different periods of Mexican History.
In 2021, the government introduced a new series of bills with updated designs. One of the most popular ones is the 50 pesos bill. It became very famous because of its beautiful purple color and especially because it features the Ajolote, a unique Mexican animal. The Ajolote is native to Xochimilco, a region in Mexico City. This animal is very special because it can regenerate parts of its body, but sadly, it is currently endangered. Many environmental organizations are working to protect it.
Another important bill is the 100 pesos, which features Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz. She was a brilliant poet, philosopher, and scientist during the colonial period of Mexico (17th century). She is considered one of the most intelligent and influential women in Mexican history. At a time when women were not encouraged to study, she defended women’s right to education and knowledge. Because of that, many people see her as one of the first feminist voices in Latin America.
Overall, Mexican bills are more than just money. They tell stories about who we are as a country. To finish, i included one of Sor Juana's most famous quotes.
“Hombres necios que acusáis a la mujer sin razón, sin ver que sois la ocasión de lo mismo que culpáis."

(Alexis Ivan : Mexican student at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies)

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