Spanish Navy Marine Infantry Centennial Commemorative Medal (Mariperman)
Commemorative Medal / Numismatic Object · Likely produced by a Spanish government mint or a specialized naval silversmith/medallic company; often associated with the Spanish Marine Infantry (Infantería de Marina).
Pattern: Special Issue Centennial Commemorative Series (Centenario 1888-1988).
Type
Commemorative Medal / Numismatic Object
Maker
Likely produced by a Spanish government mint or a specialized naval silversmith/medallic company; often associated with the Spanish Marine Infantry (Infantería de Marina).
Material
Likely bronze or a gold-plated base metal (vermeil over silver is possible but unlikely given the uniform golden-brown patina); shows no obvious silver hallmarking on the face. Some variants are silver-plate (EPNS) while others are solid bronze.
Dimensions
Approximately 50mm - 60mm in diameter; estimated weight 60-100 grams depending on metal density.
Description
A robust commemorative medallion celebrating the 1888-1988 centenary of MARIPERMAN (Marine Infantry). The design features a maritime boundary of rope-style bordering, the years of the centenary, and a detailed profile of a modern Spanish naval frigate beneath the official naval crest.
Key Features
The inscription "MARIPERMAN" (Marinería Permanente) and the specific ship profile which reflects late 20th-century naval architecture.
Material & Composition
Likely bronze or a gold-plated base metal (vermeil over silver is possible but unlikely given the uniform golden-brown patina); shows no obvious silver hallmarking on the face. Some variants are silver-plate (EPNS) while others are solid bronze.
Finish & Decoration
Relief-struck with a patinated bronze finish. Features bold block lettering, rope-border motif, central Naval emblem with crown and anchor/eagle, and high-relief depiction of a naval frigate/warship on waves.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks on the obverse face. Expected marks for silver would be the Pentagram (Spain .915 or .925) or the maker's mark on the edge or reverse side.
Construction Details
Die-struck (machine-pressed) from high-pressure steel dies to achieve sharp relief and crisp lettering. Mass-produced for commemorative purposes.
Functional Features
Medallic art, often housed in a velvet-lined presentation case for display; no mechanical or hinge features.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard circular medallion form intended for handling by the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality die-striking. High level of detail in the naval emblem and the ship's rigging/superstructure, typical of late-century commemorative medallions.
Authentication Indicators
The weight and crispness of the die-strike; the specific inclusion of the 1988 date and Spanish naval heraldry consistent with official military souvenirs.
Origin & Manufacturing
Spain; specifically relating to the naval traditions of the Spanish Marines. Manufacturing is consistent with industrial medallic workshops.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th Century (1988). Commemorates the centenary of the Spanish naval term/entity 'Mariperman'.
Age Estimate
Produced exactly in 1988 for the 100th anniversary.
Cultural Significance
Represents the professional pride and continuity of the Spanish Navy during the late 20th century, serving as a token of service or institutional history.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Shows even surface patina with minor handling marks; no deep gouges or significant metal loss. Slight tarnish in the recessed lettering.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 USD. Value is driven by military interest and historical sentiment rather than precious metal content, unless confirmed to be solid silver or gold.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle dusting with a soft cloth; avoid harsh chemical silver dips which could remove the intentional patina. Store in a padded case to prevent edge nicks.
Similar Pieces
Standard Spanish Naval medals, commemorative coins from the FNMT (Spain's Royal Mint), or private silversmith commissions for naval academies.
Interesting Facts
MARIPERMAN refers to the permanent staff and sailors of the Spanish Marine Infantry, a corps that claims to be the oldest marine force in the world.