Numismatic

1951 Franklin Half Dollar BU

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In 1951, the Philadelphia Mint produced a striking half dollar that departed from traditional allegorical figures, opting instead to honor Benjamin Franklin. This mid-century silver coin, struck with a purity of 0.900, carries a total of 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. Because it was minted in Philadelphia, it does not display a mint mark, leaving the field clean and focused entirely on the artistry. The obverse features a right-facing profile of Franklin, captured in a thoughtful and dignified pose. Surrounding his likeness are the classic inscriptions of "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST", alongside the 1951 date. This design was created by John R. Sinnock, who brought a clean, modern aesthetic to the coin's face. Turning the coin over reveals a rich reverse design centered on the historic Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings stands as a traditional national symbol. The reverse is also inscribed with the face value of "HALF DOLLAR", the issuing nation, and the traditional motto "E Pluribus Unum". This brilliant uncirculated piece offers a fascinating window into mid-twentieth-century American coinage design.