Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 4/23/2010

Question
I am told that the 1960 mexican cinco centavos coin is a unknown mintage amount and that it is a rare find and a valuable coin. is this true? I have one in very nice condition, not mint or uncirculated but still in nice condition. what could it's possible value range be?

Answer
Hi James,
My apologies for the delay, it's been a really busy weekend and I did not have a chance to answer any questions before today.
Unfortunately this is not true of the 1960 5 centavos. This is a common date and readily available in mint condition.
The key date for this type is the 1954, and especially 1954 "with dot" variety. Both of these have value in any grade, the dot variety is quite rare and very valuable for a modern coin. The difference is that the "dot" variety has a small dot behind Josefa's head, halfway between the back of the head and the I in "CINCO". Please note that if you do come across a 1954, the valuable ones will have the portrait facing right. There is also a 1954 type with the portrait facing left, which is a common coin.
Thanks for the question! =)