Numismatic

1949 Franklin Half Dollar BU

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Struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1949, this silver half dollar represents an early entry in the classic Franklin series. The coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of silver, minted with a purity of 0.900. Unlike issues from branch mints, this Philadelphia release does not display a mint mark, leaving the space above the bell clean and open. The obverse of the coin displays a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin, designed by John R. Sinnock. Surrounding the portrait are the inscriptions "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST", along with the 1949 date of issue. This design marked a departure from the traditional allegorical figures of Liberty, opting instead to honor a historical American statesman. 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 to include the national bird on the half dollar. The reverse inscriptions round out the design with the country of origin, the "HALF DOLLAR" denomination, and the traditional motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM".