(1760) Bronze Medal Betts-456, Guadalajara

Coin Details

Auction Record

$911 Genuine 02-16-2017 Heritage Auctions

Description

Betts-456 in bronze commemorates a proclamation event in Guadalajara, Mexico, dated 1760. This medal relates to the ceremonies held in the provincial capital to celebrate the accession of Charles III to the Spanish throne following the death of Ferdinand VI in 1759. Guadalajara was the administrative center of Nueva Galicia (present-day western Mexico), and its proclamation medal represents one of the many provincial issues produced throughout Spain's American empire for these dynastic occasions. Charles III's accession was particularly significant because he proved to be one of Spain's most capable Bourbon monarchs, implementing sweeping reforms in colonial administration that had lasting effects on the Americas. The bronze composition indicates this was produced for broad distribution during the proclamation festivities, which would have included public celebrations, religious services, and the traditional scattering of coins and medals to assembled crowds.

Rarity Notes

Bronze Mexican provincial proclamation medal. Guadalajara issues are scarce. Spanish colonial proclamation series.

Cross References

Betts-456; PCGS #619398