Tlatolophus galorum Medal · Dinosaurs of Mexico (Casa de Moneda)

The Tlatolophus galorum medal is part of the Dinosaurs of Mexico Collection that the Mexican Mint struck for its 490th anniversary. It is not legal tender, nor is it decreed by Banxico: it is an official commemorative medal, with a satin finish, 25 millimeters in diameter and a plain edge, produced from reused metals.

The dinosaur. Tlatolophus galorum is a dinosaur of the Hadrosauridae family, first described in 2005 from fossils found in Coahuila. It was a hadrosaur whose distinctive crest is thought to have served to produce sounds. The locality where it was found was named Dinopato in honor of its discoverer. It measured around 8.5 m and weighed some 2.9 tons; it was herbivorous.

The two finishes. The Mint issued the collection in two versions of the same design: a set in industrial metal (gilt alloy), the more accessible one, and a set in silver for the collector seeking precious-metal content. Both with a satin finish. The design of each piece was validated with Mexican paleontologists from INAH and UNAM, so the proportions are faithful to the fossil, not a generic figure.

What to expect of the value. Being a medal and not a coin, its value is collectible and thematic. The silver version has a floor from its metal content; the industrial-metal one is worth its design and the rarity of the lot. They are sold as a complete set, not loose from the factory, and several pieces are reported sold out by lots.

Where it fits. This listing is part of the Dinosaurs of Mexico Collection, where we explain the six pieces, the two finishes, and where to buy them. To buy or sell, check the stores directory and the buy-and-sell forum.