Puebla Medal. Sociedad Filarmonica Guadalupana de Socorros Mu (1876)

Silver medal of the Sociedad Filarmónica Guadalupana de Socorros Mutuos of Puebla, dated 1876, within the mutualist movement.

This Puebla group combined three traits characteristic of the era: the mutualist character (aid in case of illness or death), the philharmonic vocation (promotion of music), and the Guadalupan devotion, deeply rooted among the popular classes. Puebla was one of the great centers of Mexican artisan associationism.

These medals served as emblems for the members. The piece documents the diversity of mutualism, which not only protected workers but also cultivated music and faith. It reflects the rich associative fabric of Mexican cities in the second half of the 19th century, where solidarity, culture, and religiosity intertwined.

The "Puebla. Sociedad Filarmónica Guadalupana de Socorros Mu" medal was struck in 1876. It is made of silver, measures 29.67 mm in diameter and weighs 14.05 grams.

Because it is a silver medal, its value has a floor: its precious-metal content (14.05 grams). Above that, what drives it higher is condition, how short the issue was, and interest in the subject it commemorates (Puebla. Sociedad Filarmónica Guadalupana de Socorros Mu). A piece with no wear and its original case is worth considerably more than a mishandled one.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is silver; weigh it to estimate its fine-metal content.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Puebla. Sociedad Filarmónica Guadalupana de Socorros Mu," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleaning, with a natural patina.
4. Look for the case and 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.