Oaxaca Medal. Society of Artisans (1883)

The societies of artisans were organizations very characteristic of 19th-century Mexico. They grouped together workers of trades such as carpenters, blacksmiths, tailors, or shoemakers, and functioned at once as mutual-aid funds, spaces of instruction, and centers of guild identity in the cities.

This 1883 bronze medal corresponds to the Society of Artisans of Oaxaca, in a state with a strong tradition of popular organization. During the Porfiriato, these groups often participated in exhibitions and contests where they displayed manual work as a sign of progress.

Engraved by S. Navalón G., the piece belongs to the category of exhibition medals, awarded to reward products and trades. It is testimony to the role that organized artisans played in the economic and social life of the era.

The "Oaxaca. Sociedad de Artesanos" medal was struck in 1883. It is made of bronze, measures 37.62 mm in diameter and weighs 24.83 grams, the work of the engraver S. Navalón G.. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #E-322bp.

As a bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from the commemorative side: the event it celebrates, its age (1821-1910 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 bronze; its value depends on the subject and condition.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Oaxaca. Sociedad de Artesanos," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleaning, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and certificate if it ever 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.