1957 Benjamin Franklin Half Dollar, 90% Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · United States Mint; specifically the Philadelphia Mint (indicated by the lack of a mint mark above the bell on the reverse, though only the obverse is visible). Designed by John R. Sinnock.
Pattern: Franklin Half Dollar series, produced from 1948 to 1963.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
United States Mint; specifically the Philadelphia Mint (indicated by the lack of a mint mark above the bell on the reverse, though only the obverse is visible). Designed by John R. Sinnock.
Material
90% Silver, 10% Copper (known as 'Coin Silver'). It contains approximately 0.36169 troy ounces of pure silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 30.6 mm (1.205 inches); Weight: 12.50 grams; Thickness: 1.8 mm.
Description
This is a classic American silver half dollar featuring the founding father Benjamin Franklin. At the time of its release, it was a departure from tradition as it featured a non-presidential historical figure. This specific 1957 example shows signs of light to moderate circulation, retaining its recognizable profile and crisp date. These coins are highly sought after both by silver stackers for their precious metal content and by numismatists for their historical design.
Key Features
Benjamin Franklin obverse; 90% silver content; last half dollar series struck entirely in 90% silver (the following Kennedy series changed composition in 1965).
Material & Composition
90% Silver, 10% Copper (known as 'Coin Silver'). It contains approximately 0.36169 troy ounces of pure silver.
Finish & Decoration
Circulated strike with a bust of Benjamin Franklin facing right on the obverse. Features the legends 'LIBERTY' and 'IN GOD WE TRUST' with the date 1957. The reverse (not shown) features the Liberty Bell and a small eagle.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '1957' on the obverse. No mint mark visible on the front (standard for this series). Mint marks (D for Denver, S for San Francisco) would be located on the reverse above the Liberty Bell's yoke.
Construction Details
Machine-struck using high-pressure dies on a prepared silver planchet at the United States Mint.
Functional Features
Legal tender United States currency with a face value of fifty cents ($0.50). Reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the precious metal.
Handle & Grip Details
None; standard circulation coin designed for handheld exchange.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-striking with high relief typical of mid-20th-century US coinage. Quality reflects mass-produced industrial minting standards of the 1950s.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font for the date 1957; distinctive profile of Franklin; characteristic silver luster despite circulation; reeded edge present.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (based on absence of mint mark). Produced under the Department of the Treasury.
Era & Period
Modern American Numismatic Era; Post-WWII period (1945-1964) when silver was still used in general circulating coinage.
Age Estimate
Dated 1957; approximately 67 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war economic boom in America and is one of the last vestiges of 'real money' (precious metal currency) used in daily commerce before the 1965 transition to base-metal 'sandwich' coins.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition (likely 'Very Fine' to 'Extremely Fine' grade). Surface shows light scratches and minor tarnish. Rim appears intact with no major dings. Monogram/Date is clear.
Value Estimate
$10.00 - $15.00 USD, primarily driven by the 'melt value' of its silver content, though high-grade 'Full Bell Line' (FBL) versions can command significantly more.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic flip or archival-safe coin tube to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Pieces
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (preceded it, more ornate/Art Deco); Kennedy Half Dollar 1964 (succeeded it, also 90% silver).
Interesting Facts
The Franklin Half Dollar was cut short in 1963 following the assassination of John F. Kennedy, at which point the US Mint switched to the Kennedy Half Dollar to honor the fallen president.