If you're in search of a historically significant silver coin, the Franklin Half Dollar is an excellent choice. Honoring Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, this coin has become highly sought after and appreciated by numismatists, despite initial critiques of its design.
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was a polymath known for his contributions as a writer, scientist, inventor, and one of the United States' Founding Fathers. His experiments with electricity, notably the invention of the lightning rod, bifocal glasses, and the Franklin stove, made him a household name. Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross, a long-time admirer of Franklin, proposed featuring him on a coin. The chief engraver at the time, John R. Sinnock, who had created a medal with Franklin's likeness, likely influenced this recommendation.
The Franklin Half Dollar was first minted by the United States Mint in 1948. Initially, production was limited, but demand surged in 1957 as the economy improved. From 1962, higher quantities were produced, contributing to the coin shortage of 1964. Beginning in 1950, the Philadelphia Mint struck the coins with a proof finish. Despite being minted until 1963, the quality of coins from the late 1950s declined due to master die deterioration. Nearly 498 million Franklin Half Dollars, including proofs, were minted.
The Franklin Half Dollar series was relatively short-lived, ending in 1963 after just 15 years of production. The primary reason for this was the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963. In response to the national outpouring of grief, Congress moved quickly to commemorate Kennedy by placing his likeness on the half dollar. The design transition was expedited, and the Kennedy Half Dollar was introduced in 1964, effectively replacing the Franklin Half Dollar.
The obverse features a right-facing bust of Benjamin Franklin, accompanied by the inscriptions "LIBERTY," "IN GOD WE TRUST," and the year of issue. The reverse depicts the Liberty Bell with a small eagle to its right, satisfying the Coinage Act of 1792, which mandated that the reverse of silver coins include an eagle. Reverse inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "HALF DOLLAR," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM."
Some key date issues within the Franklin Half Dollar series are especially prized by collectors due to their rarity and historical importance. Notable dates include:
Professional grading by the Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) offers several advantages. It provides an unbiased assessment of a coin's condition, ensuring authenticity and helping establish its market value. Graded coins are encapsulated in tamper-evident holders, protecting them from damage and preserving their condition. This adds a level of confidence for both buyers and sellers in the numismatic market.
While the Franklin Half Dollar is a relatively affordable option for collectors, many have been melted for their silver content, making some dates rarer than their mintages suggest. Although these coins can still be used as legal tender, their value to collectors and investors far exceeds their face value. The Franklin Half Dollar is a significant part of America's coinage history and a treasured addition to any collection. For more information and to explore our selection, contact Bullion Hunters through our website. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting, the Franklin Half Dollar offers a rich history and enduring value.