Catholic College of San Ildefonso de Mérida Medal (1867)

Bronze medal from the Colegio Catolico de San Ildefonso de Merida, dated 1867, within the merit-piece category.

In Yucatan, far from the center of the country, education was largely in the hands of religious institutions like this Merida school dedicated to San Ildefonso. These medals were awarded to the most outstanding students as a prize for achievement and conduct.

The year 1867 marks the triumph of the Restored Republic, though on the Yucatan peninsula life kept its own rhythm. The piece documents the role of religious teaching in the formation of youth, at a time when triumphant liberalism was beginning to challenge the Church's influence over Mexican education.

The Colegio Católico de San Ildefonso de Mérida medal, struck in 1867, is a testament to the boom in religious education in southeastern Mexico during the 19th century. Its commemorative motif makes it a coveted piece among collectors of Yucatecan and historical themes.

Struck in bronze, it measures 37.61 millimeters in diameter and weighs 22.37 grams. Like any bronze medal, its value does not come from the metal but from what it celebrates: the commemorated event, its age within the 1821-1910 era, and demand among those who collect this subject. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what define the price.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is bronze; its value depends on the subject and the condition.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates the Colegio Católico de San Ildefonso de Mérida, which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or aggressive cleanings, with a 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. For the collector, this medal is cataloged as Grove, Medals of México, II #S-244b.