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- Product ID: 46305
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The 1953 Franklin Half Dollar is in almost uncirculated condition and is one of the lowest minted Franklin Half Dollars! Although the Franklin Half Dollar series was abundantly minted each year, it is still an ideal collection for novice collectors to get their hands on. The numismatic value isn't high for the Franklins but due to its 90% silver content, it is very valuable in the precious metals market. Coinage minted in 1964 and before were made with 90% silver and 10% copper. Franklins are pretty accessible in circulated condition, and investors are able to purchase them for lower premiums than the Kennedy Half Dollar. The Franklin was minted from 1948-1963, replacing the Walking Liberty. Since the Mint Director, at the time, deeply admired Benjamin Franklin, his name came up when the mint was deciding who would be on the next portrait.
Despite Benjamin Franklin's reservations of having a portrait on US currency, his portrait still appeared on the US half dollar. Franklin has been quoted saying he would rather a proverb be featured so collectors can have something to ponder while holding the coin. Along with disagreeing with portraits on coins, Franklin also disagreed with the Bald Eagle being the national bird. He claimed among numismatist lore, that the eagle was only viewed as a scavenger. The obverse features the Founding Father, who in his hay day was more than just a politician and a scientist. Franklin's other careers were an inventory, political theorist, author, printer, freemason, postmaster, and civic activist. In a very small design, the eagle is represented on the reverse, as well as the cracked Liberty bell.