Millions of Mexicans are holding on to the country’s 50 peso banknote, which features the beloved axolotl, turning it into one of the most hoarded notes in recent history.
First released in 2021, the note – inspired by a real axolotl named Gorda from a Mexico City museum – was named “Note of the Year” by the International Bank Notes Society. A new report from the Bank of Mexico shows that around 12.9 million people are actively holding onto the note, with roughly $150m worth currently out of circulation.
Many people say they keep the note simply because they love its design, with only a small percentage doing the same for other banknotes. Some early print versions are now being sold for up to 100 times their face value.
The axolotl is deeply rooted in Mexican history, dating back to pre-Aztec times and once thriving in Lake Texcoco. It was linked to Aztec mythology and even featured as food and as a symbol of a god. Today, the species is critically endangered, with wild populations limited mainly to the canals of Xochimilco.
Gorda, now elderly and rarely displayed, played a key role in promoting awareness of the species. Museum founder Pamela Valencia said the banknote has helped make the axolotl part of everyday Mexican culture, adding that people cannot protect what they do not know exists.
