Numismatic

1950-D Franklin Half Dollar Fine/XF

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In 1950, the Denver Mint produced a classic piece of mid-century American coinage. This silver half dollar, struck with a purity of 90 percent, contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. The coin represents a departure from traditional allegorical figures of liberty, opting instead to honor one of America's most famous founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin. The obverse features a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin, captured in a thoughtful, dignified pose. Surrounding his likeness are the inscriptions "LIBERTY" and the national motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," along with the 1950 date. The initials "JRS" are also present on the obverse, representing the designer, John R. Sinnock. Turning the coin over reveals a reverse design rich in national symbolism. 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. The reverse is framed by the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," the denomination "HALF DOLLAR," and the traditional Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM."