México Medal. El Colegio Mexicano (1809)

This gilt bronze medal from 1809, engraved by José M. Guerrero, commemorates the proclamation of Fernando VII promoted by the Colegio Mexicano of the capital. Although the king was proclaimed in 1808, the oaths of allegiance by the educational institutions continued into 1809.

New Spain had sworn fidelity to Fernando VII in absentia, recognizing him as legitimate king against the usurper Joseph Bonaparte imposed by Napoleon. That a college issued its own medal shows how each corporation wanted to record its loyalty to the captive monarch.

José M. Guerrero was one of the most active engravers in the capital after the death of Gil, and he signed numerous pieces from these oaths. The gilt bronze corresponded to prestige examples. The participation of the colleges in the proclamations of 1808-1809 reflects the atmosphere of the enlightened institutions of Mexico City on the eve of the War of Independence.

The "México. El Colegio Mexicano" medal was struck in 1809. It is made of gilt bronze, measures 37 mm in diameter and weighs 31.24 grams, minted in Mexico, the work of the engraver José M. Guerrero. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #F-26b.

As a gilt bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from what it commemorates: the event it celebrates, its age (viceroyalty era), and demand among collectors of the subject. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what set the price.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is gilt bronze; its value depends on the theme and the condition.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "México. El Colegio Mexicano," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh 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.