Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público Medal (1778)
Prices updated: August 2026
Silver · Proclamation and oath · 1778
Silver · Proclamation and oath · 1778
How much is the coin Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público Medal (1778) worth?
The market value of the coin Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público Medal (1778) is not yet documented with enough data to give a firm range. Weigh and measure your piece, compare it against the specifications, and check the forum for a second opinion.
The real price depends on four factors: the grade of preservation (a circulated piece is worth the low end of the range; an uncirculated one, or one still in its official blister pack, the high end), the finish (satin vs mirror/proof), the rarity within the series based on the mintage, and the metal spot price on the day of the deal when the piece is silver or gold. Check the value-by-grade table above and compare with equivalent pieces before buying or selling.
Where to buy or sell this coin?
Browse the national directory of numismatic shops or the community forum to trade directly with other collectors.
Historical context
This imposing medal from 1778 marks a decisive moment in the history of New Spanish art: the arrival in New Spain of Gerónimo Antonio Gil, appointed chief engraver of the Mexico City Mint. Trained at the Royal Academy of San Fernando in Madrid, Gil came with the mission of founding a school of engraving, the seed of the future Academy of San Carlos.
The piece is tied to the Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público, one of the enlightened institutions that flourished in the capital under the reformist impulse of Charles III. This monarch's reign promoted academies, studies, and sciences as part of his program of imperial modernization.
At nearly six centimeters in diameter and a notable weight, it is an academic medal of great stature, quite different from the popular town proclamation pieces. Gil's signature makes it a key work for understanding how neoclassicism and European artistic instruction took root in Mexico.
Description
The "Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público" medal was struck in 1778. It is made of silver, measures 58 mm in diameter and weighs 118.45 grams, the work of the engraver Gerónimo Antonio Gil. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #Similar a K-76a.
Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious metal content (118.45 grams). Above that, what drives it up is the condition, the small size of the issue, and the interest in the theme it commemorates (Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público). A piece with no wear and its original case is worth considerably more than a handled one.
How to identify and value this medal
- Confirm the metal. It is silver; weigh it to estimate its fine metal content.
- Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Real Academia de Derecho Español y Público," which defines its historical interest.
- Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleanings, with a natural patina.
- 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.
Value range of this piece
Value range without enough data for this piece.
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