1949 Franklin Half Dollar Description
The 1949 Franklin Half Dollar, is a rare coin with a relatively low mintage. Examples of this coin that remain in good condition are highly sought after as most of these half dollar coins were used until they became worn out.
Coin collectors of the time failed to save many of the 1949 Franklin half dollars, which makes it a rare collector coin. These coins were produced using 90% Silver and 10% Copper. During the 1980’s many of the coins were sold and reclaimed due to high silver prices. They were melted down to make jewelry and other ornamental items.
History of the 1949 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1949 Franklin Half Dollar was designed by John R. Sinnock and John Frederick Lewis, and today it appeals to coin collectors worldwide. It features a bell on one side and the face of Franklin on the other. It was initially designed to replace the Walking Liberty half dollar, which became obsolete after becoming warn out.
Mintage and mintmarks
Compared to other coins in the Franklin series, a low number of the 1949 half dollars were minted. A total of 5,614,000 were produced, and this was divided amongst three mints. These coins were made at the Philadelphia, Denver and San Francisco mints.
The Franklin Half Dollars value depends on the mintmarks and condition of the coin. The condition of the coin will determine whether it’s collectible or only has value as scrap silver. Uncirculated coins are rare and come with a higher price tag as they aren’t scratched or marked and have a radiant luster.
Thousands of examples of uncirculated Franklin Half Dollars are available in mint condition. These coins are rarer in MS65 condition, but there are still many coins for sale or being held by collectors. Coins that are MS66 condition are very rare, and it’s thought that there are fewer than five hundred left in the world.
