1961 Franklin Half Dollar Proof
Benjamin Franklin Half Dollar coins were minted from 1948 to 1963. Often called the ‘Franklin fifty-cent piece,’ these coins feature a composition of 90% silver / 10% copper. This 1961 Franklin Half Dollar is a choice proof coin. Proof coins remain highly collectible for their outstanding condition.
Condition and Mintage
The 1961 Franklin Half Dollar Proof coin is a choice proof that’s uncirculated and stunningly brilliant. Proof coins tend to be more sought after than uncirculated or circulated coins because of their sharp rendering and detailed artistry. Proof coins remain the highest-quality coins that mints produce. A choice proof may contain hairline marks. The mintage of the 1961 Ben Franklin Half Dollar Proof Coin is 3,028,244.
History and Description
The 1961 Franklin Half Dollar choice proof coin features a reeded edge and weighs 12.50g. Its diameter is 30.00mm and it has a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. U.S. Mint Chief Engraver John R. Sinnock designed the coin’s obverse side and much of its reverse. The obverse side shows a profile view of Franklin. Sinnock based his engraving on a sculpture of the founding father created by 18th century sculptor Jean Antoine-Houdon and completed it in 1947.
The Franklin Half Dollar coin features a reverse side depicting the Liberty Bell. Sinnock died before completing the reverse side so the engraving was completed by the mint’s subsequent chief engraver, Gilroy Roberts. The bell famously includes its notorious crack and there is also a small American bald eagle situated to the right side of it.
The last Franklin Half Dollar coins were struck in December 1963. After the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the mint replaced the Franklin coin with a half dollar coin commemorating the fallen president. While Benjamin Franklin Half Dollar coins are still in circulation today, they are growing increasingly rare. And, of course, proof coins like this 1961 Franklin Half Dollar choice proof coin remain valuable to collectors.
