1790, Mexico, Charles IV. Literary Contest of the Royal University on the occasion of the proclamation. Silver Prize Medal.
Mint Year: 1790 Medallist: G. A. Gil Reference: Grove C-36a, Medina 197, Herrera 170. Condition: Lightly wiped, some digs, handling-marks and hairlines, otherwise a nice XF+ with an old auction ticket! Denomination: Prize Medal - Literary Contest of the Royal and Pontifical University on the occasion of the proclamation of Charles IV of Spain in Mexico City Material: Silver Weight: 50.18gm Diameter: 48mm
Obverse: Superimposed busts of the King and the Queen, to the right; the first, with curls and a ponytail, wears a jabot, jacket, fleece, sash and cloak, and the second, with curly hair held with bows, a diadem and a low neckline on his dress. Below the King's bust, the engraver's signature (G . A . GIL) Legend: * REGI * MAX * CAROLO * IIII * OPT * QUE * REGINAE * ALOISIAE * Translation: "Charles IV by the Grace of God, 1790."
Reverse: Helmeted, armored and togate Minerva, holding oval Spanish-pontifical coat-of-arms of the University of Mexico in left hand and holding upright spear in right. Before her on ground an owl, at her sides symbols of science (globe, triange, etc.), literature (bookcase in background) and arts (paintbrushes, open book and a scroll). Latin legend around, ending with date (1790), medallist´s signature (GIL) in exergue. Legend: IN * SOLEM * INAUG * MEX * ACAD * EXC * CUR * AN 1790 Exergue: GIL
Charles IV (November 11, 1748 - January 20, 1819) was King of Spain from December 14, 1788 until his abdication on March 19, 1808.