Constitution of 1812 Medal (1812)

This silver medal from 1812 commemorates the oath of the Constitution of Cadiz, the first constitution of the Spanish monarchy, promulgated on March 19, 1812, by the Cortes assembled in Cadiz while Fernando VII remained captive of Napoleon. It was a revolutionary document that proclaimed national sovereignty, the separation of powers, and the equality of citizens.

The Constitution of 1812 was also sworn in New Spain, where it had a profound impact: it recognized rights for the inhabitants of America and opened, at least in theory, the door to a liberal monarchy. Its application was troubled, between the War of Independence already underway and the resistance of the colonial authorities.

These constitutional oath medals are distinct from those for the proclamation of kings: they celebrated not a monarch, but a fundamental law. They represent a key moment of the Hispanic world, when liberal ideas entered the political debate both in Spain and in New Spain, in the midst of the crisis of the old order.

The Constitución de 1812 medal is a silver piece that celebrates the promulgation of the first constitution in the Hispanic world, a document that marked the beginning of constitutionalism in Mexico and Spain. Its small size, at just 27.44 millimeters and 7.07 grams, makes it an intimate commemorative object much prized by those who collect pieces tied to the great milestones of history.

Because it is a silver medal, its value has a clear floor: the precious-metal content of 7.07 grams. Above that, what drives it up is condition, the small size of the issue, and interest in the subject it commemorates. A piece with no wear and its original case is worth quite a bit 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 motif. It commemorates the Constitution of 1812, which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or aggressive cleaning, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and 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, its catalog reference is Grove, Medals of México, I #F-219a.