Mexico City: The Mexican Peso, Worlds First Global Currency

Mexico City’s role in the history of global currency is undeniable. The Mexican peso, which originated from the Mexican Silver Dollar minted between 1535 and 1825, is widely recognized as one of the world’s first global currencies. Its significance extended far beyond Mexico’s borders, serving as the foundation for various currencies across the Americas, including the United States dollar. Exploring this rich history through the city’s museums offers a unique opportunity to understand the peso’s pivotal influence on international trade and the evolution of modern finance. What insights into global economics might these museums unveil?

Key Points

• The Mexican peso was one of the world’s earliest global currencies, minted as the Spanish dollar from 1535-1825.
• The Mexican Silver Dollar was the basis for the United States dollar and other currencies in the Americas.
• The peso replaced the silver dollar in 1863 and was widely circulated as a global currency for over a century.
• The tour explores the history and significance of the Mexican peso at the Museo del Banco de México and other museums.
• The tour concludes at the Museo Numismático Nacional, where participants can enjoy the numismatic heritage of Mexico.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The 3.5-hour walking tour starts at the Museo Banco de México, immersing participants in the fascinating history of the Mexican peso as the first global currency.

The tour visits three museums – the Museo del Banco de México, the Interactive Museum of Economics, and the Museo Numismático Nacional – showcasing historical coin collections and the evolution of the international currency system.

Along the way, guests explore the Plaza de Santo Domingo and learn about the transition from real value coins to fiduciary value coins.

The tour is limited to 10 participants and conducted in English, with the experience ending near the Argentina station of Metrobus line 4N.

Highlights of the Experience

Participants on this tour can expect to learn about the creation of the international currency system and the pivotal role of the Mexican peso as the first global currency.

Through three museum visits and guided walking tours, guests will discover the history of Mexico’s iconic currency and how it transitioned from real value coins to fiduciary value coins.

Key highlights include:

• Exploring the Museo del Banco de México and Interactive Museum of Economics to understand the evolution of the global monetary system.
• Visiting the Museo Numismático Nacional to admire historical coin collections.
• Enjoying a guided tour of Plaza de Santo Domingo in the Historic Center.
• Learning how the Mexican peso became the first truly global currency.

Detailed Itinerary

This 3.5-hour tour begins at the Museo Banco de México, where participants embark on a 1-hour guided exploration of the museum’s exhibits. Next, the group visits the Interactive Museum of Economics for a 50-minute tour, delving into the transition from real value coins to fiduciary currency.

Stop	Duration	Highlights
Museo del Banco de México	1 hour	Discover the history of the Mexican Peso as the first global currency.
Interactive Museum of Economics	50 minutes	Explore the transition from real value coins to fiduciary value coins.
Plaza de Santo Domingo	20 minutes	Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Historic Center.
Museo Numismático Nacional	50 minutes	Explore historical coin collections.

The tour concludes at the Museo Numismático Nacional, where participants can further enjoy the museum’s numismatic exhibits.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a specialized host to guide the small group, as well as access to the museums and a coffee service at the Interactive Museum of Economics.

However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or children under 18 years old.

The key inclusions and exclusions are:

• Includes: Specialized host, small group access, coffee service at MIDE, entrance to museums.
• Not Suitable For: People with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, children under 18 years.

Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour has some restrictions, such as no hats, weapons, sharp objects, smoking indoors, or flash photography.

Transportation is available via Metrobus Line 4N or Uber after the tour ends.

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Cancellation and Meeting Point

Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows travelers to adjust their plans without penalty.

The tour meeting point is located outside the main entrance to the Museo Banco de México. This centrally located starting point ensures participants can easily find the group and begin the immersive experience.

Attendees should bring a passport or other form of identification, as well as comfortable shoes for the walking portions of the tour. Following these simple guidelines helps ensure a seamless and enjoyable tour of Mexico City’s numismatic heritage.

What to Bring and Restrictions

Travelers should bring their passport or other form of identification to gain access to the museums visited on the tour.

Plus, comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a guided walking portion through the historic center.

The tour has some restrictions, including:

• No hats allowed
• No weapons or sharp objects permitted
• No smoking indoors
• No flash photography allowed

Adherence to these rules ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the immersive currency-focused experience in Mexico City.

Transportation and Departure

The tour experience ends near the Argentina station of the Metrobus line 4N.

From here, participants can easily catch an Uber or other car service for their onward journey. The Metrobus is a convenient and affordable public transportation option, with the Argentina station just a short walk from the Museo Numismático Nacional.

Guests are advised to have cash on hand for any post-tour local transportation needs, as credit cards may not be widely accepted.

The tour organizers will provide guidance on the best ways to continue exploring Mexico City independently following the conclusion of the immersive currency history experience.

Historical Context

Mexico’s peso has a storied history as one of the world’s earliest global currencies. It became the first modern currency to circulate internationally, a precursor to today’s global financial system.

Some key historical facts about the Mexican peso include:

• The Mexican Silver Dollar, known as the "Spanish dollar," was minted from 1535-1825 and became a prominent trade currency worldwide.

• This currency was the basis for the United States dollar and many other currencies in the Americas.

• The peso replaced the silver dollar in 1863 and went on to become the most widely circulated currency in the world for over a century.

• The peso’s global dominance was eventually overtaken by the U.S. dollar in the 20th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Museum Tours?

No, photography is not allowed inside the museums during the tour. The itinerary indicates there are restrictions on flash photography and visitors are advised not to use cameras or phones within the museum exhibits.

Is Food Provided During the Tour?

No, food is not provided during the tour. The tour includes only a coffee service at the Interactive Museum of Economics. Participants are responsible for arranging their own meals and snacks before, during, or after the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

According to the tour overview, the experience is not suitable for children under 18 years old. The tour is limited to adult participants only and does not accommodate minors.

Can I Leave the Tour at Any Point?

Participants can leave the tour at any point, though it’s not recommended as the experience is designed as a continuous narrative. The tour guide will provide directions to the nearest exit or transportation if needed.

Do the Museums Have Gift Shops?

The museums on the tour have gift shops where visitors can browse and purchase souvenirs and educational items. These gift shops allow participants to further explore the topics presented during the guided experiences.

Recap

Mexico City’s role as the birthplace of the Mexican peso, one of the world’s first global currencies, is celebrated through its museums. Visitors can explore the extensive history and impact of this pioneering currency on international trade and the development of currencies across the Americas, providing a unique insight into the evolution of global economics.

You can check if your dates are available here: