Benjamin Franklin Silver Half Dollar
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints)
Pattern: Franklin Half Dollar, designed by John R. Sinnock and Gilroy Roberts
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco mints)
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (known as Constitutional or Junk Silver)
Dimensions
30.6 mm diameter, 12.5 grams total weight (approx. 0.3617 troy oz actual silver content)
Description
A classic American silver coin featuring the profile of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the iconic Liberty Bell on the reverse. It was the last circulating half-dollar series struck entirely in 90% silver for every year of its production.
Key Features
Liberty Bell with visible crack; Benjamin Franklin obverse; 90% silver purity; reeded edge
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (known as Constitutional or Junk Silver)
Finish & Decoration
Business strike with a matte/circulated luster; reverse features the Liberty Bell and a small eagle
Hallmarks & Stamps
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, HALF DOLLAR, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and small eagle; JRS (designer initials)
Construction Details
Die-struck at a federal mint using a planchet of silver alloy
Functional Features
Reeded edge to prevent clipping; legal tender denomination
Handle & Grip Details
None (standard numismatic item)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck with high-pressure dies; features the designer's initials JRS on the cutoff of Franklin's shoulder
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter and 'Liberty Bell' motif; standard US Mint typography; appropriate wear for 90% silver alloy
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia (no mark), Denver (D), or San Francisco (S)
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern US Numismatics (1948-1963)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1948 and 1963
Cultural Significance
Represented post-WWII American prosperity and honored one of the most famous Founding Fathers; key piece of 'junk silver' investing.
Condition Notes
Very Good to fine; shows moderate surface wear and light tarnish consistent with circulation; no major gouges visible in image
Value Estimate
$10 to $15 based on current silver spot price; higher for 'Full Bell Lines' or rare dates/grades
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish if it has numismatic value; store in a PVC-free flip or tube to prevent environmental damage
Similar Pieces
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947), Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 only for 90% silver), Barber Half Dollar (1892-1915)
Interesting Facts
The design was criticized by the Commission of Fine Arts because the crack in the bell was thought to invite ridicule; it was replaced by the Kennedy Half Dollar following the JFK assassination.