The Franklin Mint States of the Union Sterling Silver Ingot Set
Coin/Bullion (Commemorative Silver Ingot Collection) · The Franklin Mint, founded by Joseph Segel in 1964 in Wawa, Pennsylvania. Known for mass-marketed collectibles, it was once the world's largest private mint.
Pattern: States of the Union series; released in the early 1970s; limited edition production now discontinued.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Commemorative Silver Ingot Collection)
Maker
The Franklin Mint, founded by Joseph Segel in 1964 in Wawa, Pennsylvania. Known for mass-marketed collectibles, it was once the world's largest private mint.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each individual ingot typically weighs approximately 1 troy ounce or a specific gram equivalent (approx. 31.1g), totaling 50 ingots for each U.S. state.
Dimensions
Standard ingots are approx. 1 inch by 2 inches. Total set silver weight is approximately 50 troy ounces for the full 50-piece collection.
Description
A complete 50-piece collection of sterling silver ingots, each dedicated to a state of the Union. The set is presented in its original tiered wooden cabinet with a blue velvet interior. These sets were marketed as both historical keepsakes and silver investment vehicles during a period of high inflation and interest in American heritage.
Key Features
Edge-marked sterling silver; state-specific historical iconography; original wooden 'library' style presentation case; uniform weight across the set.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Each individual ingot typically weighs approximately 1 troy ounce or a specific gram equivalent (approx. 31.1g), totaling 50 ingots for each U.S. state.
Finish & Decoration
Proof-like or frosted satin finish with raised relief. Each ingot features a state-specific map, symbols, and historical dates in a commemorative numismatic style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped on the edge with 'STERLING', the Franklin Mint logo (an 'f' and 'm' monogram), and the year of mintage (e.g., '72, '73).
Construction Details
Machine-struck/Die-struck using high-pressure minting presses to achieve sharp detail; mirror-finished backgrounds with frosted raised details.
Functional Features
Housed in a custom fitted wooden presentation chest with a velvet-lined display tray for preservation and viewing.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; however, the presentation case features brass hinges and a brass identifying plaque on the exterior front.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision industrial minting; high-quality die work with consistent thickness and uniform edges. Excellent machine-made repetitive quality.
Authentication Indicators
Correct Franklin Mint edge marks; tarnish pattern consistent with .925 silver; weight consistency across items; period-correct plaque typography.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; Franklin Center, Pennsylvania. Produced in a high-volume private industrial minting facility.
Era & Period
Modern Era / 1970s Collectible Boom. Specifically designed during the lead-up to the United States Bicentennial (1776-1976).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1975, based on the series release dates and the style of the wood/brass display case.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 1970s 'Bicentennial' fervor in the U.S. and the rise of the private minting industry targeting middle-class collectors.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The ingots show natural toning/tarnish due to age. The wooden case appears intact, though the velvet lining may show light compression marks. Note: Value is significantly reduced if pieces are missing.
Value Estimate
$1,300 - $1,600 USD. Primary value is based on the spot price of 50 oz of silver plus a modest premium (10-20%) for the complete set and original casing.
Care & Maintenance
Keep in the original case with anti-tarnish strips. Avoid polishing with abrasives; if necessary, use a mild silver dip or professional cloth. Do not remove from capsules if present.
Similar Pieces
Hamilton Mint State Ingot Sets, Danbury Mint Bicentennial Collections. Differences lie in the edge markings and specific artistic rendering of the state maps.
Interesting Facts
The Franklin Mint capitalized on the 1970s ban on private gold ownership in the US, driving silver as the primary 'hard asset' collectible for the general public.