Bolivia 1 Melgarejo (Military Merit Medal)
Country of Origin: Bolivia
Year of Issue: 1868
Denomination: 1 Melgarejo
Composition: Silver (.900 fine)
Brief Description
A silver coinage/medal featuring the dual busts of Melgarejo and Muñoz, issued during the presidency of Mariano Melgarejo.
Historical Significance
This coin was issued under the regime of the notorious dictator Mariano Melgarejo. It celebrates the relationship between Melgarejo and his advisor, Mariano Donato Muñoz. These were often distributed to the military to ensure loyalty, as evidenced by the reverse legend praising valor and talent.
Estimated Value
$100-$250 in Fine-Very Fine, $600-$1,200+ in Mint State conditions.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish the silver surfaces. Store in a PVC-free archival holder to prevent environmental damage and toning.
Mint Mark
La Paz Mint
Mintage & Rarity
Scarce; exact figures are unclear but they are much harder to find than standard 8 soles pieces.
Weight & Diameter
Approx. 20.0g and 36mm (specifications vary slightly)
Edge
Reeded
Apparent Grade
Very Fine (VF); showing significant wear on the hair and high points of the busts, with some surface scratches and toning.
Obverse (Front)
Conjoined busts of Mariano Melgarejo and Mariano Donato Muñoz facing left. Legend: 'LOS RESTAURADORES DE BOLIVIA'.
Reverse (Back)
Central inscription 'AL VALOR Y AL TALENTO' above a row of stars. Legend: 'GRATITUD DE LA ESCUELA DE INFANTERIA' and the date 1868 at the bottom.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/grade is the primary factor. High eye appeal and original surfaces significantly increase the price compared to cleaned examples.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the smaller 1/2 Melgarejo denominations or the standard Bolivian Soles of the same era.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Check for correct weight and any signs of casting bubbles. Counterfeits of Melgarejo coinage are known to exist given their historical collector interest.
Notable Varieties & Errors
Varieties exist in the placement of the stars and minor legend spacing.
Created At: 2026-06-08T00:36:08.080432