Banorie Medal. 50th Anniversary (1994)

This medal commemorates a 50th anniversary of a Mexican financial institution, whose history would trace back to the mid-1940s. The country's banking sector saw notable expansion in those decades, with the emergence of regional and national institutions that accompanied economic growth.

Celebrating half a century with a struck piece reinforced the institution's image of solidity and permanence before clients and authorities.

Struck in gold in 1994, of good module and weight, it is an especially lavish issue within the commercial medals of anniversary, the kind reserved for high-rank gifts among executives, partners, and distinguished clients.

This listing comes with the title crossed up: the image does not correspond to any "Banorie" medal, but rather to the one for the 60th Anniversary of the Fondo de Cultura Económica (1934-1994), a piece from the Numismatic Collection of the Banco de México.

What it shows

The reverse carries the legend "1934 - 1994 60 ANIVERSARIO" surrounding the facade of the publishing house and the portrait of its founder, with the engraved name "DANIEL COSIO VILLEGAS." To the left is the "M" monogram of the Mexico City Mint. The obverse shows the modern tower of the Fondo, the legend "FONDO DE CULTURA ECONÓMICA" following the rim, and the publisher's seal. The finish is mirror (proof) and the edge is reeded.

Context

The Fondo de Cultura Económica was founded in 1934 by historian and economist Daniel Cosio Villegas to provide Spanish-language books to economics students. In 1994 the institution turned 60, and this medal commemorates that milestone from the central bank's collection.

Value and collecting

A commemorative medal is not legal-tender currency: its value depends on the metal, the mirror finish, and the state of preservation, not on a face value. If you are looking to buy or sell a piece like this, compare references in the shops directory and settle authenticity questions with other collectors in the forum.