Numismatic

1948 Franklin Half Dollar BU

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In 1948, the United States Mint introduced a new half dollar design that departed from traditional allegorical figures, choosing instead to honor one of the nation's most famous founding fathers. This mid-century coin, struck in 90 percent silver at the Philadelphia Mint, marks the very first year of the Franklin Half Dollar series. Because it was minted in Philadelphia, it does not carry a mint mark. The obverse of the coin presents a clean, right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin. Surrounding his likeness are the classic inscriptions of "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST", alongside the 1948 date. The design, crafted by John R. Sinnock, captures Franklin's distinct features with a dignified simplicity. On the reverse, the central focus is the historic Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings is visible, fulfilling the legal requirement for the denomination. The reverse also displays the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and the face value of "HALF DOLLAR". This brilliant uncirculated coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of pure silver, making it a fascinating artifact of American coinage history.