La Junta Civica de Mexico a Guillermo Prieto Medal (1856)

Bronze medal with which the Junta Cívica de México honored Guillermo Prieto in 1856, engraved by P. Thermignon.

Guillermo Prieto (1818-1897) was one of the great figures of Mexican liberalism: poet, journalist, politician, and several times Minister of Finance. Author of the celebrated pseudonym "Fidel", his literary work and his commitment to the liberal cause made him a much-loved figure. Famous is the episode in which, with the phrase "the brave do not murder", he is said to have saved Juárez from execution.

This piece, of good module, reflects the civic recognition of an intellectual committed to the Reform. Honoring men of letters and of State with medals, and not only military men, shows the weight that words and ideas held in that liberal Mexico.

The "La Junta Cívica de México a Guillermo Prieto" medal was struck in 1856. It is made of bronze, measures 55 mm in diameter, and weighs 77.84 grams, the work of the engraver P. Thermignon F.. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #103b.

As a bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from what it commemorates: the event it celebrates, its age (1821-1910 period), and demand among collectors of the subject. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what drive 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 the motif. It commemorates "La Junta Cívica de México a Guillermo Prieto," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleanings, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and the 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.