Pre-1965 Franklin Half Dollars

The Franklin half dollar, struck by the United States Mint from 1948 to 1963, is a significant piece of American coinage history.

Named after one of the Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, this silver coin embodies a blend of historical significance and artistry.

Although these silver coins have a legal tender face value of $0.50 (fifty cents USD), their 90% silver makes them worth far more in silver melt value.

Since these pre-1965 silver coins are older, they will tend to have standard wear and tear from being in circulation over the years.

Coin Highlights:

• Design and Symbolism: The obverse honors Benjamin Franklin, one of America's founding figures, while the reverse features the Liberty Bell, symbolizing freedom and independence.

• Composition: Made of 90% silver and 10% copper, these coins offer a significant bullion value, with each dollar of face value containing 0.361 ounces of silver.

• Production and Mint Marks: Minted at the Philadelphia Mint, Denver Mint, and San Francisco Mint; the Denver Mint (D) and San Francisco Mint (S) coins bear mint marks (mintmarks) above the Liberty Bell's yoke. Philadelphia Mint coins were struck without mint marks.

• Key Dates and Varieties: Important dates for collectors include 1948, 1949-S, 1953, and 1955. The "Bugs Bunny" variety from 1955, known for the distinctive die clash marks near Franklin's mouth, is a notable variety in the series.

• Size and Specifications: With a mass of 12.50 grams, a diameter of 30.6 mm (1.204724 inches), and a thickness of 1.8 mm, the coin has a reeded edge and contains 0.36169587 troy ounces of silver.

The Franklin half dollar series, terminated in 1963 to honor the late President John F. Kennedy with the Kennedy half dollar, remains a cherished collectible due to its historical context and silver content.

The obverse features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin, an idea brought to life by Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross and engraved by John R. Sinnock. The words included on the obverse side are “LIBERTY,” the mintage year, and the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.”

The reverse design showcases the iconic Liberty Bell, complete with its distinctive crack, accompanied by a small eagle to comply with the legal requirement for an eagle on half dollars according to the Mint Act of 1873. The words on the reverse side include “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “HALF DOLLAR,” and “E PLURIBUS UNUM.”

Immerse yourself in the historical significance and exquisite design of the Franklin Half Dollar, crafted with precision and beauty.