Buy Certified Franklin Half Dollars Online
Certified Franklin Half Dollars hold a special place in the landscape of American coin collecting. Produced by the United States Mint from 1948 to 1963, these coins feature a portrait of one of America's most revered Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin. The introduction of the Franklin Half Dollar marked a shift in American numismatics towards the regular issuance of coins bearing the likenesses of non-presidential figures. These coins are not only a tribute to Franklin’s numerous contributions but also a significant part of mid-20th-century American coinage.
Franklin Half Dollar Design
The obverse of the Franklin Half Dollar was designed by John R. Sinnock and features a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin. The simplicity and elegance of the design are emblematic of Franklin's own utilitarian approach to life. The reverse showcases the Liberty Bell, an enduring symbol of American independence, accompanied by a small eagle to the right, which was included to satisfy legal requirements that half dollars depict an eagle.
Certification and Value
Certification of Franklin Half Dollars is an important aspect for collectors, as it assures the coin’s authenticity and condition. Coins are graded on a scale from 1 to 70 by reputable grading services such as the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) or the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). Certified coins often achieve higher prices in the market due to their verified condition. The most sought-after grades are those in the Mint State (MS) condition, with MS-65 and higher being particularly desirable.
Collectibility
Franklin Half Dollars are highly collectible due to their historical significance and aesthetic appeal. They are a popular choice among collectors who focus on 20th-century American coins. Key dates and varieties, such as the 1955 issue, which is known for having lower mintages, and coins exhibiting full bell lines (FBL) — sharp, clear horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell — command higher premiums.
Numismatic Interest
While all Franklin Half Dollars contain a significant amount of silver, their collectible value often exceeds their intrinsic metal value, especially for high-grade certified examples or those with full bell lines.