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- Product ID: 46315
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With a large number of coins minted in 1957, the Denver Mint added to the Franklin overproduction. The Denver Mint actually minted the most Franklins over the coin's production period with millions of coins. The reverse, of the Franklin Half Dollar, reveals the cracked Liberty Bell, which was contested by the Commission of Fine Art, claiming the design would be ridiculed once released to the public. The cracked Liberty Bell stayed on the half dollar for its entire length of production. Pictured as he was known for, Benjamin Franklin graces the obverse in his famous reading spectacles and his balding, round head. Underneath his shoulder are the initials "JRS," standing for the designer, John R. Sinnock. Sinnock was the Chief Engraver, who designed the Franklin but died before it was actually produced.
All three mints participated in the minting of the Franklin, strategically placing their mint-marks on the reverse. The Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Denver Mints each had their hands in the minting of the Franklin Half Dollars. The Franklin Half Dollar was produced right after the end of World War II, wherein the US Mint was overly producing coinage just in case it was needed. Most US coins minted before 1964 were comprised of 90% silver, which stopped in 1965. The 90% silver content is presently in high demand since it is slowly dwindling out of the market, due to not being produced anymore. Nowadays, collectors and investors are drawn to the Franklin Half Dollar but not because of its numismatic value, although it is a great collection for beginning collectors.