Numismatic

1961-D Franklin Half Dollar BU

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In 1961, the Denver Mint produced a striking silver half dollar that captures a distinct era in American coinage. This mid-century coin is composed of 90 percent silver, containing approximately 0.3617 troy ounces of the precious metal. Kept in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, it preserves the sharp details of its original engraving just as it looked when it first left the coining presses in Colorado. The obverse of the coin features a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin, one of America's most famous founding figures. Surrounding his portrait are the classic inscriptions of "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST", alongside the 1961 date. This design, created by John R. Sinnock, broke from the traditional custom of depicting allegorical figures of Liberty on United States circulating coinage, opting instead for a historical portrait. 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 is visible, a design element included to fulfill legal requirements for the denomination. The reverse also displays the country of origin, the face value of "HALF DOLLAR", and the traditional Latin motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM". Collectors can locate the "D" mint mark on this side, indicating its origin at the Denver facility.