José Antonio de la Garza

José Antonio de la Garza (May 31, 1776 – 1851?), was a Tejano who was the first landowner in San Antonio, Texas, and the first man to create a coin in the state. Antonio de la Garza was elected mayor of San Antonio in 1813 and 1832.

Biography Early years Antonio de la Garza was born in San Antonio de Béjar, Texas, on May 31, 1776. His parents were Leonardo de la Garza and Magdalena Martinez. His ancestors came from Nuevo Leon (modern Mexico). In 1813, he became the first elected mayor of San Antonio.

The first coin in Texas

In 1818, after acquiring permission from the government of Texas, he created the first coin that existed in Texas. "On one side of the coin", de la Garza imprinted his initials "JAG" (José Antonio de la Garza) as well as, the year it was minted (1818). On the other side of the coin, he fixed a drawing of one star.

The importance of this event was not only the creation of the first coin of Texas, but also that the star symbol drawn in the currency is said to have served of inspiration to the symbol of modern State of Texas, the "Lone Star."

De la Garza used a building located between the Houston and Soledad streets for the minting of coins. He minted them for a year and a half.