Abelardo L. Rodríguez Market. Perforated Medal (1934)

The Mercado Abelardo L. Rodríguez, inaugurated in 1934 in the center of Mexico City, was an emblematic work of the post-revolution. It bears the name of the then-president and is famous for its murals, painted by artists of the Mexican school, among them disciples of Diego Rivera.

This large pierced bronze medal from 1934 commemorates that model market, an example of the functional architecture and public art that characterized the Mexico of the 1930s.

Engraved by J. J. Pruneda, the piece is a testament to the post-revolutionary State's push for public-service works. It documents how a market could become a showcase of muralism and of the Revolution's cultural project, which sought to bring art and modernity to the people.

The "Mercado Abelardo L. Rodríguez. Perforada" medal was struck in 1934. It is made of bronze, measures 61.21 mm in diameter and weighs 77.75 grams, the work of engraver J. J. Pruneda. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #486b.

As a bronze medal, its value does not come from the metal but from the commemorative: the event it celebrates, its age (1910 to the present era), and demand among collectors of the subject. Condition and the rarity of the issue rule the price.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is bronze; its value depends on the subject and the condition.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Mercado Abelardo L. Rodríguez. Perforada," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or aggressive cleanings, with a 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.