The Franklin Half Dollar was the largest circulating coin of the day when introduced in 1948. It was also the last circulating coin to be "updated" from President Roosevelt's "worldly look" to honoring significant contributors in our nations history. Prior to the Franklin Half Dollar in 1948 we introduced the Lincoln Cent in 1909, the Jefferson Nickel in 1938, the Roosevelt Dime in 1946, and the Washington Quarter in 1932. Franklin is still the only person in US History that is a "non president" to be honored on a circulating coin.
If it wasn't for the assassination of President Kennedy, November 22nd, 1963 and the new commemorative half dollar released in 1964 it is likely the Franklin Half Dollar would still be in circulation today. It was issued for only 16 years ( 1948 to 1963 ) .. the shortest minting for a half dollar in US Mint history.
The Last 90% Silver Half Dollar Series
The Franklin is also the last 90% silver half dollar series issued for circulation. But by being the last, it is also the one that would disappear first when silver makes a run .. and it did in early 1980 when silver jumped to $50 a ounce .. it's highest price in history !! So with silver at $50 and the melt value of a half dollar now $18 ... how many of these big silver coins actually survived?! Remember, at the time gas prices shot over $1 for the first time - prices were on the rise.
The Keys to the Series -- The Rare Philadelphia Mint Proofs
The lowest minted coins in the 16 year series were the special Philadelphia Mint Proofs. They were not released or sold individually, only as part of the yearly proof set. A look at the last year of issue helps explain .. they struck almost 90 million coins for circulation in 1963 ... but only 3 million proofs.
A Collection of the Best ... of the Best .. for the Least ?
Each proof is struck at least twice, on polished dies, leaving a mirrored finish .. you can actually see yourself in the reflection. They are the Best of the Best in quality. We've assembled a 5 coin collection, the last 5 years of Philadelphia Mint Proofs .. that's 1959 to 1963. Each coin is encapsulated and comes presented in our custom box.
The Last 5 Proof Franklins (1959-1963)
|
