Ciudad de México Medal. Agustín I (1822)

Proclamation and oath medal of the City of Mexico dedicated to Agustín I, struck in 1822 and signed by the engraver F. Casanova. As the capital of the country, the city's oath ceremony had special solemnity.

After Independence was achieved, Iturbide was crowned emperor and the capital led the celebrations recognizing the new sovereign. The city council authorities handed out medals among notables and residents during the public ceremonies.

This silver piece is one of the most representative of the First Empire series, precisely because it comes from the political center of the nation. It documents how Mexico City, which had barely ceased to be the head of the viceroyalty, became the head of the fleeting Mexican monarchy.

The "Ciudad de México. Agustín I" medal was struck in 1822. It is made of silver, measures 34.17 mm in diameter and weighs 16.77 grams, minted in Mexico, the work of the engraver F. Casanova F.. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, II #9a.

Being a silver medal, its value has a floor: the precious metal content (16.77 grams). Above that, what drives it up is the condition, the small size of the issue, and the interest in the theme it commemorates (Ciudad de México. Agustín I). A piece with no wear and 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 "Ciudad de México. Agustín I," which defines its historical interest.
3. Check the condition. No scratches or harsh cleanings, with a 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.