Querétaro Medal (1792)

This bronze medal of 1792, signed by Geronimo Antonio Gil, commemorates the proclamation of Carlos IV in Queretaro, a key city of the Bajio. Although the king ascended the throne in 1788, the provincial oaths of allegiance stretched into 1792 as each city organized its celebrations.

Queretaro, prosperous from its textile workshops and its position at a crossroads, commissioned the piece from the kingdom's foremost engraver. Decades later the city would be the cradle of the independence conspiracy, but in 1792 it paid loyal homage to its king.

Gil, chief engraver of the Mint and founder of the Academy of San Carlos, guaranteed the highest artistic quality with his signature. The bronze finish was reserved for collector or exhibition examples, as opposed to the silver of the ceremonial distribution. The piece is an example of the neoclassical art that Gil introduced to New Spain through his medals.

The "Querétaro" medal was struck in 1792. It is made of bronze, measures 44.15 mm in diameter and weighs 39.37 grams, struck in Mexico, the work of engraver Gerónimo Antonio Gil. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #C-153b.

As a bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from the commemorative: the event it celebrates, its age (the viceregal era), and demand among collectors of the theme. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what drive the price.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is bronze; its value depends on the theme and condition.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Querétaro," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or aggressive cleaning, with natural patina.
4. Look for the case and the 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.