Numismatic

1959-D Franklin Half Dollar Fine/AU

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In 1959, the Denver Mint produced a silver half dollar that stands as a classic example of mid-twentieth-century American coinage. Struck in 0.900 fine silver with a precious metal content of 0.3575 troy ounces, this fifty-cent piece belongs to the beloved Franklin Half Dollar series, which captures a distinct era of United States numismatic design. The obverse of the coin presents a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation's most famous founding figures. Surrounding his likeness are the traditional inscriptions of LIBERTY and IN GOD WE TRUST, alongside the 1959 production year. John R. Sinnock designed this clean, dignified profile, which broke from the tradition of using allegorical figures of Liberty on circulating half dollars. On the reverse, the central focus is the historic Liberty Bell, complete with its famous crack. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings complements the design. The reverse is also inscribed with the issuing nation, the denomination of HALF DOLLAR, and the Latin motto E PLURIBUS UNUM. This particular issue bears the D mint mark, indicating its origin from the Denver facility, and survives in a circulated condition of Fine or better.