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HISTORY
The Franklin Half Dollar was minted from 1948 to 1963; it was originally known as the Liberty Bell Half. The initials of the designer, John R. Sinnock, appear below Franklin's shoulder. Although not very popular until about 1985, this series has become one of the most sought after sets in high grades by specialty collectors and has always been an easy set to put together in circulated grades. The Full Bell Line specimens can be a most difficult challenge especially for the 1953 S.
MINTS
Franklin Halves were minted in three locations; Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Denver. Philadelphia minted coins every year from 1948 to 1963. Denver issued coins from 1948-54, 1957-63. San Francisco struck coins only in 1949, 1951-54.
TERMINOLOGY
Full Bell Lines - An indication of sharpness of strike. The lower set of lines on the Liberty Bell is fully visible, however, most grading services allow for very slight disturbances. Some dates are extremely rare.
Liberty Bell Half - Original term for the Franklin Half struck from 1948-1963.
RECOMMENDED REFERENCES
The Complete Guide to Franklin Half Dollars, by Rick Tomaska
Photograde, by James F. Ruddy
The Coin Guys - Bubba & Zemo: Grading of the Franklin Half
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Series
Franklin Halves
Series Run
1948-1963
Designer
John R. Sinnock
Weight
12.50 grams
Net Weight
.36169 ounces pure silver
Composition
.900 silver
.100 copper
Diameter
30.6 millimeters
Edge
Reeded Edge
Mints
Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco
Mink Mark Location
reverse above bell
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