Franklin Half Dollar (1948 - 1963)

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The Franklin Half Dollar, designed by John R. Sinnock, offers a tribute to one of America’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. Struck between 1948 and 1963, this series replaced the iconic Walking Liberty design and has become a favorite among collectors for its historical significance and unique simplicity.

Key Specifications

  • Designer: John R. Sinnock
  • Issue Dates: 1948–1963
  • Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
  • Diameter: 30.6 mm
  • Weight: 12.50 grams (192.9 grains)
  • Edge: Reeded
  • Mintage Figures:
    • Business Strikes: 465,814,455
    • Proofs: 15,886,955

Design Details

Obverse

The obverse features a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin, symbolizing innovation and freedom.

  • Inscriptions Include:
    • LIBERTY above Franklin’s profile.
    • IN GOD WE TRUST below.
    • The date positioned to the right.

Reverse

The reverse highlights the Liberty Bell, a timeless symbol of American independence.

  • Key Details:
    • UNITED STATES OF AMERICA above the Liberty Bell.
    • HALF DOLLAR below.
    • E PLURIBUS UNUM to the left of the bell and a small eagle to the right.

This design uniquely incorporates both the bell and eagle, fulfilling a legal requirement that half dollars depict an eagle.

Collectibility and Popularity

While initially criticized for its simplicity compared to the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, the Franklin Half Dollar has grown significantly in popularity. Today, it is cherished for its historical relevance and the straightforward elegance of its design.

  • Common Dates:
    • Most business strikes are widely available, especially from the 1950s.
  • Condition Rarity:
    • Coins with sharply struck details, especially Full Bell Lines (FBL) on the reverse, are highly sought after by collectors.

Proof Coins

Proofs were minted from 1950 to 1964, with availability reflecting their production numbers. These coins are prized for their brilliant finishes and sharp details.

What Are Full Bell Lines (FBL)?

On the Liberty Bell depicted on the reverse, the horizontal lines at the bell’s base are a key point of focus for collectors.

  • FBL Designation Requirements:
    • The lower two lines must be fully visible and uninterrupted (except by the crack in the bell, which is part of the design).
    • NGC Standard: Both the upper and lower sets of lines must be complete and uninterrupted.

Coins meeting these criteria, similar to “Full Step” nickels, command a premium due to their scarcity and collector demand.

Why Collect Franklin Half Dollars?

  1. Historical Tribute: The design honors Benjamin Franklin and the Liberty Bell, two enduring symbols of American ideals.
  2. Availability: Many dates are accessible, making this series ideal for both beginner and advanced collectors.
  3. Full Bell Line Challenge: The quest for FBL specimens adds a layer of excitement to collecting this series.

Explore Franklin Half Dollars at ParadimeCoins.com

Discover the charm and historical significance of the Franklin Half Dollar series. At ParadimeCoins.com, we offer a curated selection of these coins in various grades, including sought-after Full Bell Line (FBL) specimens. Begin your journey into collecting this iconic series today!