Valladolid Medal (1791)

Engraved by Gerónimo Antonio Gil in 1791, this medal commemorates the proclamation of Carlos IV in Valladolid, the Michoacán city that in 1828 would be renamed Morelia in honor of the insurgent leader José María Morelos, born there. Although the king ascended in 1788, the provincial oaths extended until 1791.

Valladolid was a beautiful episcopal city, with a cathedral, seminary, and an intense cultural life; from that enlightened atmosphere would emerge, decades later, several of the protagonists of Independence. In 1791, however, it was still a loyal city of New Spain paying homage to its king.

The signature of the chief engraver of the Mint elevates the piece to the category of a work of art. Gil, founder of the Academia de San Carlos, brought the neoclassical style and the mastery that made his provincial medals true examples of the finest engraving of the viceroyalty.

The "Valladolid" medal was struck in 1791. It is made of silver, measures 44.6 mm in diameter and 40.53 grams, minted in Mexico, the work of engraver Gerónimo Antonio Gil. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #C-241a.

As a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (40.53 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, how short the issue was and interest in the theme it commemorates (Valladolid). 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 silver; weigh it to estimate its fine-metal content.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Valladolid," 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.