Real de Catorce Medal. Carlos IV

This medal corresponds to the royal proclamations and oaths to Carlos IV held at Real de Catorce, an important mining center in San Luis Potosí. It belongs to the Hispanic tradition of striking pieces when the cities of the viceroyalty of New Spain swore loyalty to a new Spanish monarch.

Carlos IV was proclaimed king in 1788, and the cities of New Spain celebrated the event with oath ceremonies and the distribution of commemorative medals. In mining camps like Real de Catorce, silver wealth made it possible to commission quality pieces for these ceremonies.

Cataloged by Grove among the proclamations and oaths and struck in silver, it is placed by its theme in the late eighteenth century. Its value lies in representing the ritual of monarchical loyalty in a celebrated Potosí mining camp during the final stage of Spanish rule.

The "Real de Catorce. Carlos IV" medal is part of the Mexican numismatic heritage. It is made of silver, measures 28.06 mm in diameter and 6.77 grams, struck in Mexico. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #C-170.

Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (6.77 grams). Above that, what drives it up is preservation, the short size of the issue, and interest in the theme it commemorates (Real de Catorce. Carlos IV). A piece with no wear and with its original case is worth considerably more than a handled 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 "Real de Catorce. Carlos IV," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the preservation. No scratches or aggressive cleaning, with 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.