Numismatic

1961 Franklin Half Dollar Gem Proof

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The 1961 Franklin half dollar stands as a remarkable example of mid-twentieth-century American coinage, minted in Philadelphia during an era of classic silver issues. Struck in 90% silver, this coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. Because it was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, it bears no mint mark, following the traditional practice of the nation's primary coining facility. On the obverse, a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin takes center stage, a design created by John R. Sinnock. This likeness of one of America's most famous founding fathers is accompanied by the inscriptions "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST", alongside the 1961 date. The reverse of the coin is rich with national symbols, dominated by a detailed rendering of the historic Liberty Bell. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with its wings spread is depicted. The reverse is completed with the inscriptions of the denomination, "HALF DOLLAR", and the traditional motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM".