Design features

Type C
Diameter 15.5 mm
Shape Round
Weight 1.58 grams
Edge

Plain

Obverse

In the center field, the national shield with the inscription “ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS” (UNITED MEXICAN STATES) along the top of the coin.

Reverse

In the center of the coin, the number five "5" as the key motif and denoting face value; to its right the cent symbol "¢"; top center, the mint year and to the right, the Mexican mint mark "M°"; to the left, parallel to an engraved pentagon, a stylized image of the solar rays of the "Ring of the Quincunxes of the Sun Stone."

Composition

Stainless steel alloy comprised of the following materials:
  • Between 16% and 18% (sixteen and eighteen percent) chrome;
  • 0.75% (seventy-five basis points) nickel, maximum;
  • 0.12% (twelve basis points) carbon, maximum;
  • 1% (one percent) silicon, maximum;
  • 1% (one percent) manganese, maximum;
  • 0.03% (three basis points) sulfur, maximum;
  • 0.04% (four basis points) phosphorus, maximum; and
  • The remainder, iron.
In circulation as of January 1st, 1996.