1760 Silver Medal Betts-462, Guatemala

Coin Details

Description

This 1760 silver medal (Betts-462) is a second variant of the Guatemala proclamation medal for Charles III, differing from Betts-461 (PCGS #893363) in specific design details. The existence of multiple proclamation medal variants from a single city reflects the practice of producing different versions for different occasions or audiences during the extended coronation celebration period. Guatemalan colonial officials spared no expense in demonstrating their loyalty to the new monarch, as the proclamation ceremony reinforced the colonial power structure and confirmed local officials in their positions. Colonial-era medals were produced at royal mints, private workshops, and jewelers' studios across Europe, with production quality ranging from masterfully engraved official issues to crudely cast provincial pieces. The silver composition indicates these medals were distributed to dignitaries and prominent citizens rather than the general population, who might receive copper or tin versions.

Rarity Notes

Original 1760 silver. Guatemala proclamation variant. Scarce.

Cross References

Betts-462; Guatemala; Charles III proclamation variant 1760