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- Product ID: 46322
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The 1961 Franklin Half Dollar contains an average mintage and is in almost uncirculated condition. Franklin has been quoted saying he would rather a proverb be featured, on a coin, 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.
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. The Franklin Half Dollar series was abundantly minted each year, leaving thousands of coins for future collectors. Since the lowest minted Franklin contains about 2.5 million coins, the Franklin Half Dollars are mainly pursued for their 90% silver content. Coinage minted in 1964 and before were made with 90% silver and 10% copper. The Franklin Half Dollars' value is mainly in its silver content and is a favorite among silver investors.