Cuernavaca Medal. Teatro Porfirio Díaz (1882)

Silver medal of the Teatro Porfirio Diaz of Cuernavaca, dated 1882 and engraved by C. Ocampo.

During the Porfiriato it was common to name theaters, plazas and public buildings after Porfirio Diaz, as a show of allegiance to the regime and glorification of his figure. The theater was a symbol of progress and refinement, and its construction was a point of pride for cities seeking to present themselves as modern and cultured.

Cuernavaca, capital of Morelos and favorite retreat of the Porfirian elite, had its own theater dedicated to the caudillo. This piece commemorates that cultural institution. It documents the cult of Diaz that permeated the country's public life and the eagerness of cities to furnish themselves with spaces of culture as a sign of civilization and progress during the Porfiriato.

The "Cuernavaca. Teatro Porfirio Díaz" medal was struck in 1882. It is made of silver, measures 31.06 mm in diameter and 16.68 grams, the work of engraver C. Ocampo G. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #218a.

Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (16.68 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, the small size of the issue, and interest in the subject it commemorates (Cuernavaca. Teatro Porfirio Díaz). 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 "Cuernavaca. Teatro Porfirio Díaz," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleaning, with a natural patina.
4. Look for the case and certificate if it once 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.