1962 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1962-P Franklin Half Dollar is offered here in brilliant uncirculated condition. Often referred to as ‘Benjamin Franklin Half Dollars,’ Franklin Half Dollar Coins are increasingly sought after by collectors of coins and silver bullion, though many of these coins remain in circulation today. All Franklin Half Dollar coins have a composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. The U.S. Mint issued Franklin Half Dollar coins between the years 1948 and 1963.
Coinage and Mintage
The 1962-P Franklin Half Dollar coin was minted in Philadelphia and has an associated mintage of 12,932,019. This coin is in brilliant, uncirculated condition and is suitable for display.
History and Description
The 1962-P Franklin Half Dollar coin has a reeded edge and diameter of 30.00mm. It is made from 90% silver and 10% copper and has a weight of 12.50g. The coin pays tribute to one of the most easily recognizable Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin. While Franklin never served as president, he is regarded as among the foremost figures of American history.
Chief Mint Engraver John R. Sinnock created the design for the coin’s obverse side. He based it on the work of 18th century sculptor Jean Antoine-Houdon who created a bust of Franklin. The coin shows the founding father in profile view. The word ‘Liberty’ appears above his head and the motto, ‘In God We Trust,’ appears below. The year of minting is featured to Franklin’s right.
Gilroy Roberts succeeded Sinnock as the mint’s chief engraver after his death. He completed the coin’s reverse side which shows the U.S. Liberty Bell with its famous crack in place. A small eagle is perched to the right of the bell.
The U.S. Mint stopped producing Franklin Half Dollar coins in order to commemorate recently assassinated President John F. Kennedy on the half dollar coin. The last Franklin Half Dollars were minted in December 1963.
