Independence Medal. 100th Anniversary (1910)

The Centennial of Independence of 1910 was the great celebration of the Porfiriato, a hundred years on from the Cry of Dolores. Porfirio Díaz organized lavish festivities to show the world a modern Mexico, and numerous commemorative medals were struck.

This silver-plated bronze medal marks the first centennial of Independence. The celebrations of September 1910 included historical parades, the inauguration of monuments and public works, and the reception of delegations from friendly nations.

The piece is testimony of that peak moment of the Porfirian regime. However, the lavishness of the Centennial contrasted with the social tensions that would soon erupt: barely had the festivities ended when the Mexican Revolution began, which would overthrow Díaz and change the country's course.

The Independencia. 100 Aniversario medal is a piece struck in 1910 to celebrate Mexico's first century of independent life, one of the country's most significant moments during the Porfiriato. Its value lies not in the metal but in what it commemorates: a historical anniversary that still draws the interest of collectors of the subject.

Struck in silvered bronze, it measures 36.3 millimeters in diameter and weighs 19.33 grams. Being a commemorative medal, its price is defined by age, the rarity of the issue, and above all condition. To value it, check that the surface has no scratches or harsh cleaning, that it retains its natural patina, and confirm whether it comes with its original case or certificate, details that add collector value.

For the collector, this medal is cataloged as Grove, Medals of México, II #411bp. Explore more pieces in the Mexican numismatics catalog and learn to read the marks in the guide on how to identify Mexican mints.