Lázaro Cárdenas Medal. Oil Expropriation (1978)
Prices updated: August 2026
Silver · Notable figures · 1978
Silver · Notable figures · 1978
How much is the coin Lázaro Cárdenas Medal. Oil Expropriation (1978) worth?
The market value of the coin Lázaro Cárdenas Medal. Oil Expropriation (1978) 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 honors Lázaro Cárdenas and the oil expropriation of March 18, 1938, one of the most momentous acts in the history of modern Mexico.
That day, President Cárdenas announced over the radio the nationalization of the oil industry, following the foreign companies' defiance of the Mexican labor rulings. The act, received with popular jubilation, gave rise to Petróleos Mexicanos and is considered the crowning moment of the Cardenista legacy and a symbol of national sovereignty.
Designed by A. Gurria, the silver piece, probably tied to the fortieth anniversary of the expropriation in 1978, belongs to the medals of historical figures. These issues honor one of the founding feats of Mexican nationalism. The minting of these commemorative pieces was the responsibility of the Mexican Mint.
Description
The "Lázaro Cárdenas. Expropiación Petrolera" medal was struck in 1978. It is made of silver, measures 40 mm in diameter and weighs 34.63 grams, struck in Mexico, the work of engraver A. Gurria.
Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious metal content (34.63 grams). Above that, what raises it is condition, the short run of the issue, and interest in the theme it commemorates (Lázaro Cárdenas. Expropiación Petrolera). 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
- Confirm the metal. It is silver; weigh it to estimate its fine metal content.
- Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Lázaro Cárdenas. Expropiación Petrolera," which defines its historical interest.
- Check the condition. Free of scratches or harsh cleaning, with a natural patina.
- Look for the case and certificate if it came with them: they add collector value.
Explore more pieces in the Mexican numismatics catalog and learn to read the marks in the how to identify Mexican mints guide.
Value range of this piece
Value range without enough data for this piece.
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