El Caballito, Small Medal (1796)

This gilt bronze medal from 1796, engraved by Gerónimo Antonio Gil, is a smaller version (the so-called "chico") dedicated to the equestrian statue of Carlos IV, the sculpture by Manuel Tolsá popularly known as El Caballito, a crowning monument of New Spanish art in the capital's Plaza Mayor.

Gil, chief engraver of the Mint and founder of the Academy of San Carlos, made several versions of this medal in different modules. The rendering of the king on horseback is considered his medallic masterpiece, celebrating both the monarch and the artistic achievement of the Mexican neoclassical school.

The gilt bronze finish sought the shine of gold at lower cost, typical of display examples. That variants of different sizes existed shows the piece's success as a commemorative object. El Caballito, captured by Gil in these medals, became an enduring symbol of Mexico City.

The "El caballito, chico" medal was struck in 1796. It is made of gilt bronze, measures 33.38 mm in diameter and weighs 12.54 grams, the work of the engraver Gerónimo Antonio Gil. In the specialized catalog it is referenced as Grove, Medals of México, I #C-268a.

As a gilt-bronze medal, its value does not come from the metal but from what it commemorates: the event it celebrates, its age (viceregal era), and demand among collectors of the subject. Condition and the rarity of the issue are what govern the price.

How to identify and value this medal

1. Confirm the metal. It is gilt bronze; its value depends on the subject and the condition.
2. Read the legend and the motif. Commemorating "El caballito, chico" 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.