History of the Franklin

Half Dollar

(1948-1963)

 

The first Franklin Half Dollar was issued in 1948. The obverse depicted the bust of Benjamin Franklin while the reverse pictured the Liberty Bell, crack and all (a controversial decision at the time). A small stylized eagle is also present to the right of the bell...solely because the law had required the presence of an eagle on every half dollar since 1792.

The mint mark is located on the reverse just above the bell's yoke.

The Franklin Half Dollar was composed of 90% Silver and 10% Copper. Since pure silver is very soft, copper was added to all circulating silver coins to harden them and prevent excessive wear. These 90% Silver Half Dollars had a weight of 12.50 grams, a diameter of 30.6 mm, a reeded edge. The edges of most silver coins were reeded to make evident any attempt to shave silver off the coin.

The Franklin Half Dollar was struck in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco.

Terms and Mint Marks

AVERAGE CIRCULATED: A typical circulated coin from the period. All major features are easily identifiable. Date and mint mark are clear and readable.

BRILLIANT UNCIRCULATED (BU): A strictly uncirculated coin with attractive mint luster but noticeable detracting contact marks or minor blemishes.

D (Denver): The 'D' mint mark is located on the reverse just above the bell's yoke.

S (San Francisco): The 'S' mint mark is located on the reverse just above the bell's yoke.

Note: Franklin Half Dollars struck in Philadelphia bear no mint mark.

 

 

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