Numismatic

1961 Franklin Half Dollar MS-64 NGC (FBL)

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The 1961 silver half dollar presents a distinct departure from traditional American coinage by honoring a non-presidential founding figure. The obverse displays a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin, accompanied by the inscriptions of liberty and the national motto. This particular coin, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, carries no mint mark, which is characteristic of the facility's production for this era. On the reverse, the central motif is the historic Liberty Bell, rendered with such precision that it has earned the Full Bell Lines designation. This special classification indicates that the horizontal lines on the lower portion of the bell are exceptionally well-defined and complete. Next to the bell, a small eagle with open wings completes the design, surrounded by the traditional Latin motto and the face value of fifty cents. Struck in 90 percent silver, this piece contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal. Having achieved a certified grade of Mint State 64, it stands as a well-preserved example of mid-twentieth-century American coining artistry, showcasing the detailed engraving work of John R. Sinnock.