Numismatic

1954 Franklin Half Dollar PF-68 Cameo NGC

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This mid-century silver coin represents a remarkable moment in United States coinage, featuring the iconic Franklin Half Dollar design. Struck in 1954, this particular piece was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, which did not utilize a mint mark for its issues during this era. Out of a mintage of 233,300 pieces, this specimen stands out due to its exceptional preservation, earning a certified grade of Proof 68 Cameo. The obverse features the profile of Benjamin Franklin, accompanied by the inscriptions of liberty and the national motto, "IN GOD WE TRUST". The reverse displays the historic Liberty Bell alongside a small eagle, flanked by the traditional Latin phrase "E PLURIBUS UNUM" and the issuing authority, "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA". The denomination is clearly marked at the bottom as "HALF DOLLAR". Struck from 90 percent silver, this coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. The cameo designation highlights the intense contrast between the frosted details of the design and the highly reflective, mirror-like fields, making this 1954 issue a fascinating study in mid-twentieth-century minting techniques.