Numismatic

1963 Franklin Half Dollar BU

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In 1963, the United States Mint produced a half dollar that departed from the traditional depictions of Liberty, choosing instead to honor one of the nation's most famous founding figures. This mid-century silver coin features a right-facing profile of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse. Surrounding his likeness are the inscriptions of liberty and trust, along with the 1963 date. Because this particular piece was struck at the Philadelphia mint, it bears no mint mark. The reverse of the coin is rich with American symbolism, dominated by a detailed rendering of the historic Liberty Bell. To the right of the bell, a small eagle with spread wings is visible, a design element included to fulfill legal requirements for the denomination. The reverse also displays the traditional Latin motto of national unity and the face value of fifty cents. Struck in 90 percent silver, this Brilliant Uncirculated coin contains 0.3575 troy ounces of precious metal, preserving the crisp details of John R. Sinnock's original mid-century artwork.