Valladolid Medal (1808)

This medal from 1808, engraved by Francisco Gordillo, belongs to a critical moment in Hispanic history: the proclamation of Fernando VII. In March 1808, the Mutiny of Aranjuez forced the abdication of Carlos IV in favor of his son Fernando; shortly afterward, Napoleon compelled both to renounce at Bayonne and placed his brother José on the Spanish throne.

New Spain, indignant, proclaimed Fernando VII king in absentia, as the legitimate sovereign against the French usurper. The oaths of 1808 were, for this reason, much more than a ritual: they expressed the loyalty of the viceroyalty to the Spanish monarchy in the midst of crisis.

This piece was issued by Valladolid (today Morelia). Two years later, that same city and its region would become hotbeds of the insurgency. The medals of 1808 thus capture the moment just before the outbreak: a viceroyalty swearing fidelity to a captive king, without suspecting that the Crown's very crisis would open the path to Independence.

The "Valladolid" medal was struck in 1808. It is made of bronze, measures 41 mm in diameter and 35.5 grams, struck in Mexico, the work of the engraver Francisco Gordillo. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #F-195a.

As a bronze medal, its value comes not from the metal but from the commemorative side: the event it celebrates, its age (viceregal period), and demand among collectors of the theme. Preservation 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 the preservation.
2. Read the legend and the motif. It commemorates "Valladolid," 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.