Features of banknote and coin exchange service

Diagram explanation

Banco de México places coins into circulation through credit institutions (banks), which distribute them through their teller windows and corporate customers. From that point on, coins can be:

• "Active", if they are being used in transactions.
• "Inactive", which are further classified into:
  
  • "Lost coins": those that are discarded or kept by tourists and taken out of Mexico.
  • "Forgotten coins": those left in drawers, ashtrays, or other places, and not used.

Additionally, coins can be "hoarded", meaning they are saved for a specific purpose. For example, for buying holiday gifts. In this case, they transition intermittently between "inactive" (while being saved) and "active" (when the saved amount is spent).

Information drawn from public opinion surveys regularly conducted by Banco de México reveals that people frequently save coins, often forgetting about them. It also shows that the public often perceives a shortage of coins when making transactions. However, when dividing the total number of coins in circulation (denominations from 5 cents to 20 pesos) by Mexico’s total population, the result is over 385 coins per person in circulation, a figure that seems inconsistent with the lack of change perceived by the public.

For this reason, we encourage you to use your coins or exchange them at a bank.

Placing your coins back into circulation means making the most out of your money! Moreover, you will help reduce the need to produce new coins, thus saving public resources.

Where to exchange your coins

For more information dial 800-BANXICO (800 226 9426) or send an e-mail to dinero@banxico.org.mx

Customer service hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., on banking business days.