Mexico City Medal (1785)

This large bronze medal of 1785, engraved by Gerónimo Antonio Gil, corresponds to the years when the master was already directing the nascent Academy of San Carlos, approved by Charles III in 1783 and formally established in the capital. Gil, chief engraver of the Mint since 1778, had turned his workshop into the first school of academic art in New Spain.

Dedicated to Mexico City, the piece stands out for its considerable format (close to seven centimeters), typical of the commemorative medals of greater solemnity. Bronze was the usual metal for exhibition and collection examples, as opposed to the silver reserved for ceremonial distribution.

Like every work signed by Gil, this medal is at once a historical document and an artistic piece. It embodies the moment when Mexico stopped importing the art of engraving and began producing it with its own mastery, under the direction of the man who laid the foundations of national artistic instruction.

The "Ciudad de México" medal was struck in 1785. It is made of bronze, measures 67 mm in diameter and weighs 126.3 grams, struck in Mexico, the work of the engraver Gerónimo Antonio Gil. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #K-82b.

As a bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from the commemorative side: the event it celebrates, its age (viceroyalty era), and demand among collectors of the theme. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what rule the price.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is bronze; its value depends on the theme and condition.
2. Read the legend and motif. It commemorates "Ciudad de México," 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.