Proof Franklin Half Dollar 1956

The Proof Franklin Half Dollars were only minted by the Philadelphia Mint and were a part of the Proof Set series. With an unsure grasp on what the public would think of these new half dollars, the Philadelphia Mint began with a very low mintage and increased as every year. In 1956, 669,384 Proof coins were minted, being a stark contrast from its BU counterparts that have millions of its lowest mintage. Collectors save their money for the Proof Franklin Halves and rightfully so! Their low mintages and 90% silver content are a great investment strategy!

The Franklin Half Dollar was minted from 1948-1963, with pretty large mintages each year. These large mintages do affect the half dollar's numismatic value but as investors have found, the real value is in their 90% silver content. There is a law that unless the US Mint took congressional action, then a coin must be in service for 25 years before being replaced. Since the Walking Liberty Half Dollar served longer than 25 years, the Mint Director didn't need permission to move onto a new design. The design she chose was of Benjamin Franklin, which was originally going to be used on a dime in 1941. The Mint Engraver, John R. Sinnock, designed this dime that never was produced and wouldn't be taken out until the new Franklin Half Dollar would be released. Although Franklin himself despised portraits on US coins, the Mint Director promised he was only referring to royalty portraits and he would be honored to be featured on the coin. Franklin has been quoted saying he would rather a proverb be featured so collectors can have something to ponder while holding the coin.

• Denomination: N/A
• Year: 1956
• Diameter: N/A
• Mint Mark: N/A
• Thickness: N/A
• Grade: Ungraded