Ciudad de México Medal. El Arzobispo (1814)
Prices updated: August 2026
Gilt bronze · Proclamation and oath · 1814
Gilt bronze · Proclamation and oath · 1814
How much is the coin Ciudad de México Medal. El Arzobispo (1814) worth?
The market value of the coin Ciudad de México Medal. El Arzobispo (1814) is not yet documented with enough data to give a firm range. Weigh and measure your piece, compare it against the specifications, and check the forum for a second opinion.
The real price depends on four factors: the grade of preservation (a circulated piece is worth the low end of the range; an uncirculated one, or one still in its official blister pack, the high end), the finish (satin vs mirror/proof), the rarity within the series based on the mintage, and the metal spot price on the day of the deal when the piece is silver or gold. Check the value-by-grade table above and compare with equivalent pieces before buying or selling.
Where to buy or sell this coin?
Browse the national directory of numismatic shops or the community forum to trade directly with other collectors.
Historical context
This gilt bronze medal of 1814, engraved by Francisco Gordillo, was issued by the Archbishopric of Mexico and celebrates the return of Ferdinand VII to the throne. After Napoleon's defeat, the king returned to Spain in 1814, abolished the Constitution of Cádiz, and restored absolute power.
The archbishop's participation recalls the close bond between Church and Crown in the defense of the old order. The ecclesiastical hierarchy, equally fearful of the insurgency and of the Cádiz liberalism (which had curtailed the clergy's privileges), welcomed the restoration of the absolute king with joy.
Francisco Gordillo, a prolific engraver of the era, gave shape to this prestige piece in gilt bronze. While the War of Independence still burned in the viceroyalty, these 1814 medals expressed the loyalty of the highest ecclesiastical authority to the restored king. They document the moment when absolutism reimposed itself after the brief constitutional interlude, with the blessing of the New Spain Church.
Description
The "Ciudad de México. El Arzobispo" medal was struck in 1814. It is made of gilt bronze, measures 41.89 mm in diameter, weighs 25.91 grams, and is the work of the engraver Francisco Gordillo. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #F-22a.
As a gilt-bronze medal, its value does not come from the metal but from the commemorative: the event it celebrates, its age (viceroyalty period), and demand among collectors of the theme. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what drive the price.
How to identify and value this medal
- Confirm the metal. It is gilt bronze; its value depends on the theme and the condition.
- Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Ciudad de México. El Arzobispo," which defines its historical interest.
- Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleaning, with a natural patina.
- 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.
Value range of this piece
Value range without enough data for this piece.
Official sources
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