Numismatic

1955 Franklin Half Dollar MS-64 PCGS (FBL)

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The 1955 Franklin Half Dollar represents a classic mid-century moment in United States coinage, honoring one of the nation's most versatile founding figures. Struck in 90% silver, this coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. It is preserved in a high-grade Mint State 64 (MS-64) condition, specifically noted for its Full Bell Lines, which indicates an exceptionally sharp and complete strike on the reverse design. On the obverse, a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin occupies the center, designed by John R. Sinnock. This portrait is accompanied by the inscriptions "LIBERTY", "IN GOD WE TRUST", and the 1955 date. The design broke from the tradition of featuring allegorical figures on circulating silver coins, opting instead for a historic American statesman. The reverse displays the iconic Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings is visible, a detail added to fulfill legal requirements for the denomination. The reverse inscriptions include "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA", "E PLURIBUS UNUM", and the face value, "HALF DOLLAR". This combination of patriotic symbols makes the coin a fascinating study for those exploring mid-twentieth-century American numismatics.