Banco de México Medal. Numismatic Exhibition. Spain (1978)

This silver medal was issued by the Bank of Mexico for a Numismatic Exhibition in Spain in 1978, a show with which the central bank took Mexican monetary heritage abroad.

Exhibiting Mexican coins and medals in Spain had a special significance, given the colonial origin of the Mexican mint, founded in 1535 during the viceroyalty. Mexican silver circulated around the world for centuries, and a show of this nature strengthened the numismatic ties between the two countries.

Designed by Lorenzo Rafael, the silver piece belongs to the chapter of exhibition medals. The Bank of Mexico's issues for international shows document the dissemination of national monetary heritage. The striking of these pieces was the province of the Mexican Mint, historically linked to the country's central bank.

The "Banco de México. Exposición Numismática. España" medal was struck in 1978. It is made of silver, measures 40.17 mm in diameter and weighs 34.43 grams, struck in Mexico, the work of the engraver Lorenzo Rafael.

Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (34.43 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, how short the issue was, and interest in the theme it commemorates (Banco de México. Exposición Numismática. España). A piece with no wear and its original case is worth considerably more than a handled one.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is silver; weigh it to estimate its fine-metal content.
2. Read the legend and motif. It commemorates "Banco de México. Exposición Numismática. España," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleanings, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and certificate if it had them: they add collection value.

Explore more pieces in the Mexican numismatics catalog and learn to read the marks in the guide on how to identify Mexican mints.