Drescription: The Franklin Half Dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, is a 90% silver coin designed by John R. Sinnock, featuring a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. It was the last U.S. coin series struck entirely in silver, with a 35-date,, mint-mark, and, proof series.

Key Design Features & Details:

Obverse: A bust of Benjamin Franklin, modeled after a 18th-century sculpture by Jean-Antoine Houdon, with "LIBERTY" above, "IN GOD WE TRUST" below, and the date to the right.

Reverse: The Liberty Bell (with its famous crack) in the center, flanked by a small eagle on the right—included to meet legal requirements—and the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM" on the left. "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR" are inscribed.

Mint Marks: Located above the center of the Liberty Bell.

Collector Information:

Popularity: Highly collected for its historical significance and 90% silver content.

Key Varieties: The 1949-S/S (repunched mintmark) and various proof, issues.

Condition Rarities: "Full Bell Lines" (FBL) on the reverse, indicating a sharp strike, are highly desirable.

Design Controversy: Initially criticized for the small eagle and depiction of the bell crack.