Numismatic

1948-D Franklin Half Dollar MS-64 NGC (FBL)

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In 1948, the United States Mint introduced a new half dollar design, departing from previous allegorical figures to honor one of the nation's most famous founding figures, Benjamin Franklin. This inaugural year issue from the Denver Mint is struck in 90% silver, containing 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. The obverse presents a clean, right-facing profile of Franklin, accompanied by the traditional inscriptions of liberty and trust, alongside the date of minting. The reverse of the coin features the iconic Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack, suspended from a wooden yoke. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings is depicted, satisfying the legal requirement for the denomination. This particular specimen is certified in Mint State 64 (MS-64) and carries the highly sought-after Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation. This detail indicates an exceptionally sharp strike, where the horizontal lines on the lower portion of the Liberty Bell are fully defined and uninterrupted, a feature highly prized by enthusiasts of mid-century American coinage.