Numismatic

1948-1963 Franklin Half Dollar Gem Proof (Random)

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Struck in 90 percent silver, the Franklin half dollar represents a distinct era in United States coinage. Issued from 1948 to 1963, these pieces were eventually withdrawn from circulation as the nation transitioned to copper and nickel clad compositions. Each coin contains approximately 0.3617 ounces of actual silver weight, offering a substantial and tactile connection to mid-twentieth-century American minting. The obverse of the coin showcases a profile of Benjamin Franklin, designed by John Sinnock. Surrounding the portrait are the clear inscriptions of "LIBERTY" and the national motto, "IN GOD WE TRUST." This design marked a departure from the allegorical figures of Liberty that had dominated silver coins for decades, opting instead to honor a historical American statesman. On the reverse, the powerful imagery of the Liberty Bell takes center stage, complete with its famous crack. A tiny eagle is nestled to the right of the bell, fulfilling the legal requirement for the denomination. The reverse inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and the face value, "HALF DOLLAR." These proof-strike examples, known for their sharp details and mirrored fields, highlight the intricate textures of both the portrait and the bell.