Centennial of Banco de Londres y México Medal (1964)

This large-format medal in gold commemorates the centennial of the Banco de Londres y México in 1964, the first bank established in the country.

The Banco de Londres, México y Sudamérica began operations on August 1, 1864, when Maximilian was emperor and Benito Juárez president in the interior. A branch of an English bank, it holds the distinction of having been the first to issue banknotes in Mexico, in February 1865. Over time it would give rise to what is today part of Mexican commercial banking.

Cataloged by Grove as B-65, this great gold piece, more than seventy millimeters across, celebrates the hundred years of that pioneering institution. Commercial medals of banking anniversaries document the country's financial history. The minting of this commemorative issue was carried out to match the prestige of the occasion.

The "Centenario del Banco de Londres y México" medal was struck in 1964. It is made of gold, measures 70.12 mm in diameter and weighs 84.16 grams, struck in Mexico. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #B-65.

Since it is a gold medal, its value has a floor: the precious-metal content (84.16 grams). Above that, what drives it up is condition, how short the issue was, and interest in the subject it commemorates (Centenario del Banco de Londres y México). A piece with no wear and its original case is worth considerably more than one that has been handled.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is gold; weigh it to estimate its fine-metal content.
2. Read the legend and the motif. Commemorating "Centenario del Banco de Londres y México" 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 ever 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.