El Colegio Palafoxio Medal (1809)

This bronze medal from 1809, engraved by José M. Guerrero, commemorates the proclamation of Fernando VII promoted by the Palafoxian College of Puebla, the celebrated educational institution founded in the 17th century by Bishop Juan de Palafox y Mendoza, one of the most notable figures of the viceroyalty. Although the king was proclaimed in 1808, the colleges' oaths extended into 1809.

The Palafoxian College, with its magnificent library (the Palafoxiana, today a World Heritage site), was a beacon of the culture of New Spain. That it issued its own medal shows how institutions of learning joined the homage to the captive king.

José M. Guerrero, a prolific engraver after Gil's death, gave shape to this piece. New Spain had sworn fidelity to Fernando VII in absentia, against the usurper Joseph Bonaparte imposed by Napoleon. The participation of the colleges in the oaths of 1808-1809 reflects the enlightened atmosphere of Puebla on the eve of the War of Independence.

The El Colegio Palafoxio medal is a commemorative piece from the viceregal period struck in 1809 to honor this emblematic New Spain educational institution. Engraved by José M. Guerrero, it captures in bronze the cultural prestige of an era fundamental to Mexico's history.

It is made of bronze, measures 40 millimeters in diameter and weighs 41.48 grams. Like any bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from the commemorative aspect: the event it celebrates, its age, and demand among collectors of the 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 condition.
2. Read the legend and motif. It commemorates El Colegio Palafoxio, 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, this piece is cataloged as Grove, Medals of México, I #F-127c.