(1747) Medal Betts-345, Ferdinand-Guatemala

Coin Details

Auction Record

$1,528 Genuine 02-16-2017 Heritage Auctions

Description

This medal, Betts-345, commemorates Ferdinand and Guatemala, relating to a Spanish colonial proclamation or ceremony in the Captaincy General of Guatemala during the War of Jenkins' Ear period. Guatemala was an important administrative center in Spain's American empire, governing a territory that encompassed modern Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Medals issued in conjunction with Spanish colonial ceremonies often commemorated royal events such as accessions, marriages, or military victories. The dissemination of commemorative medals through diplomatic channels, military distribution, and commercial sale created a network of information about New World events that complemented printed news and official correspondence. The Guatemala connection places this medal in the Central American theater of colonial conflict, close to the Caribbean campaigns that dominated the War of Jenkins' Ear.

Rarity Notes

Rare. Spanish colonial Guatemala medals are uncommon.

Cross References

Betts-345