Half Dollar
Flowing Hair Half Dollar 1794-1795
Introduction and Historical Context
The Flowing Hair Half Dollar was introduced shortly after the Coinage Act of 1792, which established the U.S. Mint and authorized the production of various denominations of coinage. The Mint, under the direction of David Rittenhouse, the first Director of the Mint, began producing silver coins in 1794, with the Flowing Hair design being used for the dollar, half dollar, half dime, and the disme (an early term for the dime).
The decision to use the Flowing Hair design on the half dollar was influenced by the need to establish a distinctly American coinage that would be accepted both domestically and internationally. The half dollar was an important denomination, intended to facilitate larger transactions and help establish the credibility of the new nation's currency.
Designer
The Flowing Hair design was created by Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. Scot was responsible for many of the early designs used on U.S. coinage, and his work was heavily influenced by neoclassical art, which was popular in the late 18th century. The Flowing Hair design was meant to symbolize liberty and the young nation's ideals.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Flowing Hair Half Dollar features a right-facing bust of Liberty with flowing hair, representing freedom. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears above the bust, and the date is positioned below. The design is surrounded by 15 stars, representing the number of states in the Union at the time.
Reverse: The reverse design features a small, thin eagle surrounded by a wreath. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the design. Notably, there is no indication of the denomination on the reverse, a common feature of early U.S. coinage.
Interesting Historical Facts
First Half Dollar Issued: The Flowing Hair Half Dollar was the first half dollar coin produced by the United States Mint, marking a significant milestone in the establishment of a national currency.
Short-Lived Design: The Flowing Hair design was used for only two years, 1794 and 1795, before being replaced by the Draped Bust design. The short duration of the series adds to its rarity and desirability among collectors.
Mintage and Rarity: The 1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar had a mintage of only 23,464 coins, while the 1795 issue saw a slightly higher mintage of 299,680 coins. Despite the higher mintage in 1795, both years are considered rare, especially in higher grades.
Early Minting Challenges: The production of the Flowing Hair Half Dollar was challenging for the young U.S. Mint. The quality of the strikes varied, with many coins exhibiting weak strikes, particularly on the reverse. This was due to the limited technological capabilities of the Mint at the time.
First Silver Coins: Along with the Flowing Hair Dollar, the Flowing Hair Half Dollar was among the first silver coins minted in the United States. These coins were intended to establish the credibility of U.S. currency on the international stage.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1794 Flowing Hair Half Dollar: The 1794 issue is the first year of the Flowing Hair Half Dollar and one of the most sought-after coins in the series. With a mintage of only 23,464 coins, it is extremely rare and highly prized by collectors. Examples in higher grades are particularly valuable and can command significant premiums at auction.
1795 Flowing Hair Half Dollar: The 1795 issue is slightly more common than the 1794, with a mintage of 299,680 coins. However, it is still considered rare, especially in higher grades. The 1795 half dollar is often collected alongside the 1794 as part of a complete Flowing Hair set.
Die Varieties: The Flowing Hair Half Dollar series is known for several interesting die varieties, including different star counts (some 1795 issues have 15 stars, while others have 16) and differences in the positioning of the date and other design elements. These varieties add an extra layer of interest and collectibility to the series.
Draped Bust Half Dollar 1796-1807
Introduction and Historical Context
The Draped Bust Half Dollar was introduced in 1796, following the short-lived Flowing Hair design, which had been used from 1794 to 1795. The new design was part of a broader effort to improve the artistic quality of U.S. coinage, as well as to create a more standardized and recognizable appearance for the nation's currency. The Draped Bust design was used across several denominations, including the dollar, half dollar, dime, and half dime.
The Draped Bust Half Dollar was minted during a time of significant expansion and development in the United States. The country was still in its early years of independence, and the U.S. Mint was working to establish a stable and credible currency that could be trusted both domestically and internationally.
Designer
The Draped Bust design is attributed to Robert Scot, the first Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. Scot’s design was influenced by neoclassical art, which was popular in the late 18th century. The obverse design is believed to have been based on a portrait of Philadelphia socialite Ann Willing Bingham, a well-known figure in early American society. The design features a more refined and classical representation of Liberty compared to the earlier Flowing Hair design.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Draped Bust Half Dollar features a right-facing bust of Liberty, with flowing hair and drapery around her neckline. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears above the bust, and the date is positioned below. The design is surrounded by 13 stars, representing the original colonies. In 1796, there were two star variations: one with 15 stars and another with 16 stars, reflecting the number of states in the Union at that time.
Reverse (Small Eagle, 1796-1797): The early Draped Bust Half Dollars (1796-1797) feature a small eagle surrounded by an olive branch and palm branches on the reverse. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the design. This design is often referred to as the "Small Eagle" reverse.
Reverse (Heraldic Eagle, 1801-1807): In 1801, the reverse design was changed to feature a heraldic eagle, similar to the Great Seal of the United States. The eagle holds an olive branch and arrows in its talons, symbolizing peace and strength. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the design, and the denomination "50 C." is positioned below the eagle. This design is known as the "Heraldic Eagle" reverse.
Interesting Historical Facts
Transition from the Flowing Hair Design: The Draped Bust design was introduced as a replacement for the Flowing Hair design, which had been criticized for its perceived lack of refinement. The new design was intended to present a more classical and dignified image of Liberty.
Limited Production and Rarity: The Draped Bust Half Dollar was produced in relatively small quantities, particularly in the early years. The 1796 and 1797 issues are among the rarest U.S. half dollars, with mintages of only 3,918 and 3,918 coins, respectively. These early coins are highly sought after by collectors and command significant premiums.
Design Variations and Modifications: The Draped Bust Half Dollar series includes several notable design variations, particularly in the number of stars on the obverse and the transition from the Small Eagle to the Heraldic Eagle reverse. These variations are of great interest to numismatists and add to the collectibility of the series.
End of the Series: The Draped Bust Half Dollar was replaced in 1807 by the Capped Bust design, which reflected further advances in minting technology and artistic style. The transition marked the end of an era in early American coinage.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar (Small Eagle): The 1796 Draped Bust Half Dollar is one of the most sought-after coins in U.S. numismatics. With a mintage of only 3,918 coins, it is extremely rare and valuable. The 1796 half dollar is also notable for its two star varieties: the 15-star and 16-star designs, reflecting the addition of Tennessee as the 16th state.
1797 Draped Bust Half Dollar (Small Eagle): The 1797 issue is similarly rare, with a mintage of just 3,918 coins. Like the 1796, it is highly prized by collectors, especially in higher grades.
1801 Draped Bust Half Dollar (Heraldic Eagle): The 1801 half dollar is the first year of the Heraldic Eagle reverse design. While more common than the earlier Small Eagle issues, it is still rare and collectible, particularly in higher grades.
1802/1 Overdate: The 1802/1 Draped Bust Half Dollar is a well-known overdate variety, where the "2" in the date was punched over a "1." This variety is rare and highly sought after by collectors.
1806 Knob 6 and Pointed 6 Varieties: The 1806 Draped Bust Half Dollar features two notable varieties: the "Knob 6" and "Pointed 6" varieties, referring to the shape of the "6" in the date. Both varieties are collectible, with the Pointed 6 being somewhat scarcer.
Proof Issues: While not officially designated as proof coins, some Draped Bust Half Dollars exhibit prooflike qualities and are highly prized by collectors. These coins were likely struck with specially prepared dies and may have been presentation pieces.
Capped Bust Half Dollar 1807-1839
Introduction and Historical Context
The Capped Bust Half Dollar was introduced in 1807, replacing the Draped Bust Half Dollar, which had been in circulation since 1796. The new design was part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage, as the young nation sought to establish a more standardized and recognizable currency. The Capped Bust design was used on half dollars and other denominations, including the half dime and dime.
The series is divided into two main types: the Large Diameter Capped Bust Half Dollar (1807-1836) and the Reduced Diameter Capped Bust Half Dollar (1836-1839). The latter design, often referred to as the "Reeded Edge" variety, was the result of technological advancements in minting and marked the beginning of a new era in U.S. coinage.
Designer
The Capped Bust Half Dollar was designed by John Reich, a German-born engraver who was hired by the U.S. Mint as an assistant engraver in 1807. Reich’s design features a neoclassical portrayal of Liberty, which became one of the most enduring images in early American coinage. Reich's contributions were significant in shaping the appearance of U.S. coins during this period, and his designs are celebrated for their artistry and attention to detail.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Capped Bust Half Dollar features a left-facing bust of Liberty wearing a Phrygian cap, often referred to as a "Liberty cap." The word "LIBERTY" appears on the headband of the cap, and the design is encircled by thirteen stars representing the original colonies. The date is positioned below the bust. The design is classical and elegant, reflecting the neoclassical influences popular in early 19th-century American art and coinage.
Reverse: The reverse design features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, holding a shield, arrows, and an olive branch. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the eagle, with the denomination "50 C." or "HALF DOLLAR" (depending on the type) positioned below. This design is similar to that used on other silver coins of the period and symbolizes the strength and unity of the nation.
Interesting Historical Facts
Introduction of the Capped Bust Design: The Capped Bust design was part of a major redesign of U.S. coinage in the early 19th century, aimed at modernizing and improving the appearance of American coins. Reich's design was introduced first on the half dollar in 1807, followed by other denominations.
Technological Advances: The Reduced Diameter Capped Bust Half Dollar (1836-1839) was the first U.S. coin struck using a close collar, a technological innovation that allowed for more uniform and precise minting. This led to the introduction of reeded edges, which helped prevent the clipping of silver from the edges of the coins.
High Mintage and Circulation: The Capped Bust Half Dollar was the most widely circulated silver coin in the United States during its production years. It was struck in large quantities, and many examples survive today, making it a relatively accessible series for collectors.
Overdate Varieties: The Capped Bust Half Dollar series is known for several notable overdate varieties, where the date on the coin was repunched over an earlier date. These overdates are highly collectible and add an extra layer of interest to the series.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1807: The first year of issue for the Capped Bust Half Dollar is 1807, and it is a key date in the series. The 1807 half dollar is notable for its sharp details and attractive design, making it a prized piece for collectors.
1815/2 Overdate: The 1815/2 Capped Bust Half Dollar is one of the most famous and sought-after overdate varieties in the series. The overdate occurred when a die from 1812 was repunched with the 1815 date. This variety is rare and highly prized by collectors.
1817/3 Overdate: Another notable overdate variety is the 1817/3, where the "7" in the date was punched over a "3." This variety is rare and commands a premium, especially in higher grades.
1823 Broken 3: The 1823 Capped Bust Half Dollar is known for its "Broken 3" variety, where the "3" in the date appears cracked or broken. This variety is rare and is a key date for collectors.
1836-1839 Reeded Edge Varieties: The Reduced Diameter or Reeded Edge Capped Bust Half Dollars are highly collectible due to their historical significance as the first U.S. coins struck using a close collar. The 1838-O (New Orleans Mint) Reeded Edge half dollar is particularly notable as the first half dollar struck outside the Philadelphia Mint and is rare in high grades.
Proof Issues: Proof Capped Bust Half Dollars are extremely rare and were typically struck as presentation pieces. These proofs are highly prized by collectors for their sharp details and mirror-like surfaces.
Liberty Seated Half Dollar 1839-1891
Introduction and Historical Context
The Liberty Seated Half Dollar was introduced in 1839, replacing the Capped Bust Half Dollar that had been in circulation since 1807. The new design was part of a broader initiative to modernize U.S. coinage, reflecting the nation's growing sense of identity and progress. The Liberty Seated design was used across multiple denominations, including the half dime, dime, quarter, and dollar.
The series is notable for the many design modifications and varieties that occurred over its long production run. These changes often reflected shifts in coinage legislation, technological advancements, and the evolving tastes of the time.
Designer
The Liberty Seated design was created by Christian Gobrecht, the third Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. Gobrecht was a highly skilled engraver and designer, and his work had a lasting impact on U.S. coinage. The Liberty Seated design, which depicted Liberty seated on a rock holding a shield and a pole topped with a Liberty cap, became a staple of U.S. silver coinage for decades.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Liberty Seated Half Dollar features a full-length figure of Liberty seated on a rock, holding a shield in her right hand and a pole with a Liberty cap in her left hand. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears on a ribbon across the shield. The date is positioned below the figure. The design is surrounded by thirteen stars, representing the original colonies.
Reverse: The reverse design features an eagle with outstretched wings, holding arrows and an olive branch in its talons, symbolizing war and peace. The inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" encircles the design, with the denomination "HALF DOL." placed below the eagle.
Interesting Historical Facts
Multiple Design Variants: The Liberty Seated Half Dollar series includes several distinct design variants, each with its own unique characteristics. These variants include:
No Motto (1839-1866): The early coins did not include the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST," which was added later as a response to the religious sentiment during the Civil War.
Arrows at Date (1853-1855): Arrows were added to the date to indicate a reduction in the coin's weight from 13.36 grams to 12.44 grams.
Motto Added (1866-1891): The motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" was added to the reverse design above the eagle in 1866, reflecting the nation's increasing religious sentiment during and after the Civil War.
Civil War and Reconstruction: The Liberty Seated Half Dollar was in circulation during the Civil War and the Reconstruction era, periods of significant upheaval and change in the United States. Coins from the Civil War years are particularly prized by collectors for their historical significance.
Branch Mint Production: The Liberty Seated Half Dollar was produced at multiple mints, including Philadelphia, New Orleans, San Francisco, and Carson City. Coins from the Carson City Mint (CC) are especially sought after due to their low mintages and the mint's association with the Western frontier.
Long-Running Series: The Liberty Seated Half Dollar was produced for more than 50 years, making it one of the longest-running designs in U.S. coinage history. Its longevity and the numerous changes it underwent provide a rich field of study for numismatists.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1839 No Drapery: The first year of the Liberty Seated Half Dollar series, 1839, is notable for the "No Drapery" variety, where Liberty's elbow does not have the drapery that was added in later years. The 1839 No Drapery half dollar is a key date and highly collectible, especially in higher grades.
1853 Arrows and Rays: In 1853, arrows were added to the date and rays were added around the reverse design to indicate a reduction in the coin's weight. This design was only used for one year, making the 1853 Arrows and Rays half dollar a popular and collectible variety.
1870-CC: The 1870-CC Liberty Seated Half Dollar, minted in Carson City, is one of the rarest and most valuable coins in the series. With a mintage of only 54,617 coins, it is extremely rare, especially in higher grades. The 1870-CC is a key date and a highlight of any Liberty Seated Half Dollar collection.
1878-S: The 1878-S Liberty Seated Half Dollar is another key date, with a mintage of 12,000 coins. It is particularly sought after in uncirculated condition.
Proof Issues: Proof Liberty Seated Half Dollars were struck in limited quantities each year, particularly from the 1850s onward. These coins are highly collectible, with certain dates being especially rare and valuable.
Barber Half Dollar 1892-1915
Introduction and Historical Context
The Barber Half Dollar was introduced in 1892, replacing the Liberty Seated Half Dollar, which had been in circulation since 1839. The new design came at a time when the U.S. Mint sought to update the nation’s silver coinage, which had been criticized for being outdated and uninspiring. Charles E. Barber, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, was tasked with designing the new coinage after a public competition failed to produce satisfactory results.
The Barber Half Dollar was minted during a period of significant change in the United States, including the end of the Gilded Age and the beginning of the Progressive Era. The coin was in circulation through important historical events, including the Spanish-American War and the early years of World War I.
Designer
Charles E. Barber, who served as the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1879 until his death in 1917, designed the Barber Half Dollar. Barber was a prolific engraver, responsible for numerous coins and medals during his long tenure at the Mint. His designs, including the Barber Half Dollar, are characterized by their classical simplicity and practicality, though they were sometimes criticized for lacking artistic flair.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Barber Half Dollar features a profile portrait of Liberty facing right, wearing a Phrygian cap with a laurel wreath and a ribbon inscribed with "LIBERTY." The design is surrounded by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and the date at the bottom. Thirteen stars representing the original colonies encircle the design.
Reverse: The reverse design features a heraldic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch and arrows in its talons, similar to the Great Seal of the United States. Above the eagle’s head is a scroll inscribed with "E PLURIBUS UNUM." The denomination "HALF DOLLAR" is placed below the eagle, and the design is encircled by the inscription "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA."
Interesting Historical Facts
Uniform Coinage Design: The Barber Half Dollar was part of a uniform design series that also included the Barber Dime and Barber Quarter. This standardization was intended to create a cohesive look across U.S. silver coinage, with similar designs and inscriptions on all three denominations.
Mixed Public Reception: While the Barber Half Dollar was practical and well-executed, it was not universally loved by the public or contemporary critics. Some felt that the design lacked the artistic creativity that had characterized earlier coinage, such as the Liberty Seated series. Despite this, the Barber Half Dollar became a staple of American commerce for over two decades.
End of the Series: The Barber Half Dollar was replaced in 1916 by the Walking Liberty Half Dollar, designed by Adolph A. Weinman. The new design was part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage with more artistically ambitious designs, reflecting the changing tastes of the early 20th century.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1892-O and 1892-S: The first year of the Barber Half Dollar series saw coins struck at the New Orleans (O) and San Francisco (S) mints, in addition to the Philadelphia (no mintmark) mint. The 1892-O and 1892-S half dollars are particularly notable, with the 1892-S being the rarer of the two in higher grades.
1893-S: The 1893-S Barber Half Dollar is one of the key dates in the series. With a mintage of just 740,000 coins, it is rare in all grades and highly sought after by collectors. The 1893-S is particularly challenging to find in uncirculated condition, where it commands significant premiums.
1897-O: The 1897-O Barber Half Dollar, struck at the New Orleans Mint, is another key date with a mintage of 632,000 coins. It is rare in higher grades and is highly desirable among collectors.
1913 and 1914: The 1913 Barber Half Dollar, particularly the Philadelphia issue, is notable for its lower mintage compared to other years. The 1914 half dollar, especially the San Francisco issue (1914-S), is also a key date in the series, with low mintages and high demand among collectors.
Proof Issues: Proof Barber Half Dollars were struck each year from 1892 to 1915, with mintages generally ranging from 600 to 1,000 coins. Proof examples are highly prized by collectors for their sharp details and reflective surfaces. Certain dates are particularly rare and valuable.
Walking Liberty Half Dollar 1916-1947
Introduction and Historical Context
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was introduced in 1916 as part of a broader effort to modernize U.S. coinage, replacing the Barber Half Dollar, which had been in circulation since 1892. The redesign was part of a movement initiated by President Theodore Roosevelt, who sought to bring more artistic merit to American coins. The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was issued during a period of significant change in the United States, including World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II.
The coin was minted for 31 years, making it one of the longest-running half dollar designs in U.S. history. It was eventually replaced by the Franklin Half Dollar in 1948.
Designer
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was designed by Adolph A. Weinman, a prominent American sculptor who also designed the Mercury Dime. Weinman was a student of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, whose influence is evident in the classical style and artistic quality of Weinman’s work. The Walking Liberty design is often regarded as one of the most beautiful in American coinage, and it remains a highly regarded and influential design.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar features a full-length figure of Liberty walking towards the left, draped in the American flag. Her right hand is extended, symbolizing peace and hope, while she carries branches of laurel and oak in her left arm, symbolizing civil and military glory. The sun rises in the background, casting rays of light across the scene. The inscription "LIBERTY" arcs above, with the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" to the right and the date below.
Reverse: The reverse design features a majestic eagle perched on a mountain crag, with wings partially raised as if about to take flight. A sapling of mountain pine, symbolizing strength and resilience, grows from the rock. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "E PLURIBUS UNUM," and "HALF DOLLAR" encircle the design.
Interesting Historical Facts
Artistic Significance: The Walking Liberty Half Dollar is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful coins ever minted by the United States. Weinman’s design was praised for its classical elegance and the way it embodied American ideals of liberty, hope, and resilience.
Minting Challenges: The high relief and intricate details of the Walking Liberty design presented challenges for the U.S. Mint, particularly in achieving fully struck coins. As a result, many Walking Liberty Half Dollars, especially those from the early years of the series, exhibit weak strikes, particularly in the central areas of the design.
Transition and Longevity: The Walking Liberty Half Dollar was struck through several significant periods in American history, including both World Wars and the Great Depression. Its long production run and the many changes in minting technology and practices during this time add to the coin’s historical interest.
Inspiration for the American Silver Eagle: The obverse design of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar was revived in 1986 for the American Silver Eagle bullion coin, underscoring the enduring appeal of Weinman’s design.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1916 and 1917 (Mintmark on Obverse): The first two years of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar series saw mintmarks placed on the obverse of the coin, below the "IN GOD WE TRUST" inscription. In mid-1917, the mintmark was moved to the reverse, creating two distinct varieties for 1917. The 1916 coins, especially those from the Denver (D) and San Francisco (S) mints, are key dates in the series.
1921-P, D, and S: The 1921 Walking Liberty Half Dollars, struck at the Philadelphia (P), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S) mints, are among the key dates in the series. The 1921-D and 1921-S are particularly rare, with low mintages and high demand among collectors.
1938-D: The 1938-D Walking Liberty Half Dollar, minted in Denver, is another key date in the series. With a mintage of only 491,600 coins, it is rare and highly sought after, especially in higher grades.
1941-S and 1942-S Doubled Die Obverse: These varieties feature a noticeable doubling of the obverse design, particularly in the inscriptions and the date. They are rare and command significant premiums, especially in uncirculated condition.
1946 and 1947 (High Grade Coins): While not particularly rare, high-grade examples of the later dates in the series, particularly from 1946 and 1947, are popular among collectors. The 1946-S in higher grades can be challenging to find.
Proof Issues (1936-1942): Proof Walking Liberty Half Dollars were struck from 1936 to 1942, with low mintages that make them highly collectible. The proof coins from the early years, especially 1936, are particularly rare and valuable.
Franklin Half Dollar 1948-1963
Introduction and Historical Context
The Franklin Half Dollar was introduced in 1948, during a period of post-World War II optimism and growth in the United States. The decision to honor Benjamin Franklin, one of the most influential figures in American history, was spearheaded by Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross. Franklin’s contributions as a statesman, scientist, inventor, and philosopher made him an ideal subject for the new half dollar design.
The Franklin Half Dollar was produced for 15 years before being replaced by the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964, following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Despite its relatively short production run, the Franklin Half Dollar remains a popular and significant series among collectors.
Designer
The Franklin Half Dollar was designed by John R. Sinnock, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint from 1925 until his death in 1947. Sinnock’s design was based on earlier works he had created, including a medal depicting Benjamin Franklin. The reverse design, featuring the Liberty Bell, was also based on a previous medal Sinnock had designed.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Franklin Half Dollar features a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin, with his name inscribed along the rim above the portrait. The inscriptions "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" are placed above Franklin’s head and to the right, respectively, while the date is positioned below the portrait. The simplicity of the design reflects Franklin’s own values and the neoclassical style favored by Sinnock.
Reverse: The reverse design features a prominent depiction of the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence and freedom. To the right of the bell is a small eagle, included to fulfill the legal requirement that all U.S. half dollars display an eagle. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" encircle the design, with the denomination "HALF DOLLAR" below the bell.
Interesting Historical Facts
Simplicity and Controversy: The Franklin Half Dollar was notable for its simplicity, which contrasted sharply with the more ornate designs of earlier coins. Some critics felt that the design lacked the artistic flair of previous half dollars, particularly the Walking Liberty Half Dollar it replaced. However, the design's simplicity was also seen as a fitting tribute to Franklin's straightforward and practical nature.
First Non-Presidential U.S. Coin: The Franklin Half Dollar was the first regular-issue U.S. coin to feature a non-presidential figure on the obverse. Benjamin Franklin’s inclusion marked a shift in U.S. coinage, paving the way for future coins that would honor other historical figures.
Liberty Bell Crack: The reverse design features the Liberty Bell with its iconic crack. There was some debate over whether to include the crack, as some officials worried it might be seen as a negative symbol. Ultimately, it was decided that the crack was an integral part of the Liberty Bell’s history and should be included.
Short Production Run: The Franklin Half Dollar was produced for only 15 years, making it one of the shorter-lived half dollar series in U.S. history. Its production was cut short by the introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964, following President Kennedy’s assassination.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1948-P (First Year of Issue): The first year of the Franklin Half Dollar series, 1948, is significant for its historical importance. While not particularly rare, high-grade examples of the 1948-P are highly sought after by collectors.
1949-S: The 1949-S Franklin Half Dollar is one of the key dates in the series, with a relatively low mintage of 3,744,000 coins. It is particularly scarce in higher grades and is considered one of the more challenging dates to find in uncirculated condition.
1955 Bugs Bunny Variety: The 1955 Franklin Half Dollar is famous for its "Bugs Bunny" variety, where die clashing resulted in a small die defect that gives Franklin the appearance of having buck teeth. This variety is popular among collectors and adds an extra layer of interest to the series.
1958 and 1959 Proofs: The Franklin Half Dollar series includes proof issues from 1950 to 1963. The 1958 and 1959 proof coins are particularly notable for their cameo and deep cameo varieties, where the devices (raised portions) of the coin are frosted, contrasting with the mirror-like fields. These proof coins are highly prized by collectors.
1963-D: The 1963-D Franklin Half Dollar, struck at the Denver Mint, is significant as the last year of issue for the series. While not rare, it is often collected as part of a complete Franklin Half Dollar set.
Kennedy Half Dollar 1964-Present
Introduction and Historical Context
The Kennedy Half Dollar was conceived in the days following President Kennedy’s assassination as a way to honor his memory. The idea was quickly approved by Congress, and the U.S. Mint moved rapidly to produce the new coin. The Kennedy Half Dollar replaced the Franklin Half Dollar, which had been in circulation since 1948.
The coin was first issued in 1964, with an initial composition of 90% silver and 10% copper. Due to rising silver prices and changes in U.S. coinage policy, the composition was changed to a 40% silver-clad alloy in 1965, and then to a copper-nickel clad composition in 1971. Despite these changes, the Kennedy Half Dollar has remained a popular and enduring symbol of the Kennedy legacy.
Designer
The obverse of the Kennedy Half Dollar was designed by Gilroy Roberts, the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint at the time. Roberts based the design on a portrait of Kennedy that he had previously created for the Presidential Medal series. The reverse design, featuring the Presidential Seal, was created by Frank Gasparro, who later succeeded Roberts as Chief Engraver.
Design Characteristics
Obverse: The obverse of the Kennedy Half Dollar features a left-facing portrait of John F. Kennedy, with the inscriptions "LIBERTY" above and "IN GOD WE TRUST" below. The date is positioned to the right of the portrait. The design is both dignified and poignant, capturing the youthful energy and hope that Kennedy inspired in the American people.
Reverse: The reverse design features the Presidential Seal, with an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows in its talons, and a shield on its chest. The design is encircled by 50 stars, representing the states of the Union. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR" are placed around the outer edge of the design.
Interesting Historical Facts
Rapid Development and Release: The Kennedy Half Dollar was developed and released with remarkable speed. The design was approved on December 30, 1963, just over a month after Kennedy’s assassination, and the coins were released to the public in March 1964.
High Demand and Hoarding: The Kennedy Half Dollar was met with overwhelming public demand, with many people hoarding the coins as mementos of the late president. This led to a shortage of the coins in circulation, despite high mintages.
Silver Content Changes: The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was struck in 90% silver. Starting in 1965, the composition was changed to a 40% silver-clad alloy. In 1971, the coin's composition was changed again to a copper-nickel clad alloy, which remains in use today. The changes in silver content reflect broader trends in U.S. coinage, driven by the rising price of silver.
Bicentennial Issue: In 1975 and 1976, the Kennedy Half Dollar featured a special reverse design commemorating the Bicentennial of the United States. These coins were dated "1776-1976" and featured an image of Independence Hall on the reverse. The Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the most widely collected issues in the series.
Key Dates and Rare Varieties
1964 (First Year of Issue): The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is significant as the first year of the series and the only year the coin was struck in 90% silver for circulation. While not rare, high-grade examples, particularly those with deep cameo contrast in proof, are highly sought after.
1964 Accented Hair Variety: The 1964 proof Kennedy Half Dollar includes a rare variety known as the "Accented Hair" variety, characterized by more pronounced hairlines above Kennedy’s ear. This variety was reportedly the result of an initial design that was later modified. The Accented Hair variety is rare and commands a premium among collectors.
1965-1967 SMS Issues: Special Mint Sets (SMS) were issued from 1965 to 1967, during which no proof sets were produced. The Kennedy Half Dollars from these sets are known for their higher quality strikes and are sought after by collectors, especially in high grades with cameo or deep cameo finishes.
1970-D: The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar, struck at the Denver Mint, was only issued in mint sets and not for general circulation. With a mintage of 2.15 million, it is one of the key dates in the series and is highly collectible.
1971-S and 1972-S Silver Proofs: These issues are part of the "Blue Ike" and "Brown Ike" sets and are composed of 40% silver. The 1971-S and 1972-S silver proofs are popular among collectors for their silver content and proof finish.
1998-S Matte Finish: The 1998-S Kennedy Half Dollar was issued as part of a special two-coin set with the Robert F. Kennedy commemorative silver dollar. The matte finish on this coin is unique within the series and makes it a key variety for collectors.
Bicentennial Issues (1975-1976): The 1776-1976 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar is widely collected, especially in proof and silver versions. The coins were struck in both copper-nickel clad and 40% silver, with the silver versions being particularly popular.