Recuerdo Matrimonial Medal

This piece is a wedding-keepsake medal, of the kind struck or handed out at weddings as a reminder of the ceremony. In the Grove catalog these issues are classified among the "bolos," a term referring to the commemorative objects handed out to guests at family celebrations.

The bolos of a wedding, baptism, or first communion were a widespread custom in Mexico during the 19th and 20th centuries. These small medals served as a personal keepsake and token for attendees, rather than as circulation or award pieces.

Struck in gilt silver and of reduced format, it has no recorded year. Its value lies in documenting an intimate, family tradition: that of leaving a record in metal of an important moment in life, within the little-known universe of bolos medalwork.

The "Recuerdo Matrimonial" medal is part of the Mexican numismatic heritage. It is made of gilt silver, measures 19.3 mm in diameter and 2.13 grams.

As a gilt-silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (2.13 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, how short the issue was and interest in the theme it commemorates (Recuerdo Matrimonial). A piece without wear and with its original case is worth considerably more than one that has been tampered with.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is gilt silver; weigh it to estimate its fine-metal content.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Recuerdo Matrimonial," 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 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.