Numismatic

1948-D Franklin Half Dollar BU

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In 1948, the United States Mint introduced a fresh face to its half dollar coinage, departing from traditional allegorical figures to honor one of the nation's most famous founding fathers. This inaugural year issue from the Denver Mint features a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse. Designed by John R. Sinnock, the clean profile is accompanied by the inscriptions LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, along with the mid-century date of 1948. The reverse of the coin is rich with historic symbolism, showcasing a detailed depiction of the Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings stands alongside the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. The denomination, HALF DOLLAR, is boldly inscribed below. Struck in 90 percent silver, this coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal and bears the D mint mark above the bell, indicating its origin from the Denver production facility.