Adolfo López Mateos Medal. Inauguration (1964)

This brass medal commemorates the inauguration of Adolfo López Mateos, president of Mexico between 1958 and 1964, though its 1964 date ties it more to the close of his six-year term and the transfer of power.

López Mateos's administration coincided with the height of the Mexican miracle and left behind far-reaching works such as the creation of the ISSSTE and major infrastructure projects. He also oversaw the commemorations of the Year of the Homeland in 1960 and managed the start of the Olympic preparations.

Cataloged by Grove as P-272b, the piece belongs to the medals of historical figures, in this case a head of state. The mintings tied to presidential inaugurations were part of the political ritual of the era. These issues were produced at the Mexican Mint or in medal workshops of the capital.

What it shows

The obverse carries the bust of Adolfo López Mateos facing forward, with the legend PRESIDENTE CONSTITUCIONAL DE LOS ESTADOS UNIDOS MEXICANOS running around the rim and LIC. ADOLFO LOPEZ MATEOS at the foot. On the sides of the face appear the dates 1958 and 1964, marking his presidential term. The reverse presents the Winged Victory, the figure of the Angel of Independence, holding a wreath aloft. It is surrounded by the phrase PUEBLO Y GOBIERNO CUMPLIREMOS NUESTRO DESTINO HISTÓRICO and, at the bottom, 1o. DICIEMBRE 1958, the exact date of the inauguration.

Context

Adolfo López Mateos was sworn in as president of Mexico on December 1, 1958, and governed until 1964. The medal commemorates that start of his term; the reverse legend echoes the civic tone of his inaugural address. It is a privately circulated piece, not an official legal-tender striking.

Value and collecting

It is not legal tender, so its value depends on the preservation and the metal, in this case brass. Pieces with crisp relief and no varnish command better prices. If you want to buy or sell a similar one, check the shops directory and compare references in the forum.