Centenary of Independence Medal (1910)

The Centennial of Independence, celebrated in September 1910, was the great civic event of the Porfiriato. Porfirio Díaz organized lavish festivities to commemorate a hundred years of the Grito de Dolores and to show the world a modern and civilized Mexico.

This silver medal of 1910 commemorates those celebrations, which included the inauguration of the Column of Independence and the Hemiciclo a Juárez, in addition to parades, banquets, and receptions for foreign delegations. Hundreds of public works were projected for the occasion.

The piece is testimony to the culminating point of the Porfirian regime. Ironically, just weeks after these festivities the Mexican Revolution would break out, which would put an end to Díaz's long rule and open a new era in the country's history.

The "Centenario de la Independencia" medal was struck in 1910. It is made of silver, measures 25.12 mm in diameter and 8.73 grams, struck in Mexico. In specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #386a.

Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (8.73 grams). Above that, what lifts it is condition, the short run of the issue, and interest in the theme it commemorates (Centenario de la Independencia). A piece with no wear and its original case is worth considerably more than one that has been handled.

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 the motif. It commemorates "Centenario de la Independencia," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleanings, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and the certificate if it had them: they add collector value.

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