Pesoteca · Mexican numismatic catalog Pesoteca

Fernando VII Medal. José Ignacio Paz (1820)

Reverse
Obverse

Silver · Notable figures · 1820

How much is the coin Fernando VII Medal. José Ignacio Paz (1820) worth?

The market value of the coin Fernando VII Medal. José Ignacio Paz (1820) 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 silver medal of 1820, engraved by Francisco Gordillo, corresponds to a new turn in the turbulent trajectory of Ferdinand VII. In 1820, a liberal military uprising led by Rafael del Riego forced the king to swear the Cadiz Constitution anew, beginning the so-called Liberal Triennium (1820-1823).

The news reached New Spain and compelled another swearing of the Constitution in the viceroyalty. It carries the associated name of José Ignacio Paz, probably the notable or authority who sponsored the issue.

This second constitutional period had enormous consequences in Mexico: the conservative elites' fear of the liberal reforms driven from Spain pushed many to support Independence as a way to preserve the old order. From that climate would arise, in 1821, Iturbide's Plan of Iguala. This 1820 medal thus captures the moment before the consummation: the last constitutional oath under Spanish rule, the immediate prelude to the definitive break with the Crown.

Description

The "Fernando VII. José Ignacio Paz" medal was struck in 1820. It is made of silver, measures 46 mm in diameter and weighs 44.11 grams, the work of the engraver Francisco Gordillo. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #F-230.

Since it is a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (44.11 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, how short the issue was, and interest in the subject it commemorates (Fernando VII. José Ignacio Paz). 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. Commemorating "Fernando VII. José Ignacio Paz" defines its historical interest.
  3. Check the condition. No scratches or aggressive cleaning, with natural patina.
  4. Look for the case and the certificate if it ever 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.

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