Numismatic

1954 Franklin Half Dollar Fine/XF

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In 1954, the United States Mint produced a half dollar that departed from the traditional allegorical figures of liberty, opting instead to honor one of the nation's most famous founding fathers. The obverse of this fifty-cent piece presents a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin. Surrounding his likeness are the inscriptions of freedom and faith that define the era, with the word LIBERTY positioned above and the phrase IN GOD WE TRUST below, alongside the mid-century date of 1954. Turning the coin over reveals 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, while the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM is placed to the left. The reverse is completed by the country of origin and the denomination, reminding observers of the coin's place in American currency. Crafted from 90 percent silver, this piece contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal and stands as a testament to the design work of John R. Sinnock.