Ciudad de México Medal (1780)

Engraved in 1780 by Gerónimo Antonio Gil, this medal belongs to the years in which the great Zamoran artificer was consolidating his work in New Spain. Gil had arrived in Mexico in 1778 as chief engraver of the Mint and was about to found the drawing school that would give rise to the Academy of San Carlos, approved by Charles III in 1783.

Dedicated to Mexico City, the piece reflects the neoclassical taste that Gil introduced into New Spanish art: sober compositions, idealized portraits, and an engraving technique on par with the best European houses.

Gil's signature is a guarantee of quality and a historical detail of the first order. His medals not only commemorated people or events but trained an entire generation of Mexican engravers. That is why pieces from his hand are considered the foundation of academic art in Mexico.

The "Ciudad de México" medal was struck in 1780. It is made of silver, measures 52 mm in diameter and weighs 50.96 grams, minted in Mexico, the work of engraver Gerónimo Antonio Gil. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #K-78.

Because it is a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious metal content (50.96 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, how short the issue was, and interest in the subject it commemorates (Ciudad de México). 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 "Ciudad de México," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or aggressive cleaning, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and the certificate if it came with 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.