Numismatic

1951 Franklin Half Dollar Fine/XF

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In 1951, the United States Mint produced a half dollar that departed from traditional allegorical figures, opting instead to honor a historical American statesman. The obverse of this silver coin features a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin. Surrounding his likeness are the inscriptions of core American values, including the word LIBERTY and the phrase IN GOD WE TRUST, along with the mid-century date of 1951. The reverse of the coin displays a detailed depiction of the Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings is visible, a design element required by law. The inscriptions on this side declare the issuing nation as the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the denomination of HALF DOLLAR, and the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. Struck in 90 percent silver, this coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. Designed by John R. Sinnock, this fifty-cent piece represents a classic era of American coinage, showcasing patriotic symbols that remain deeply resonant today.