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1958 Silver Franklin Half Dollar - NGC MS63 Certified

The 1958 Franklin Half Dollar represents a significant piece of American numismatic history and precious metal collecting. This particular specimen has been certified by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) at MS63 grade, indicating it is in excellent condition with exceptional eye appeal and minimal wear. With a precious metal content of 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver, this classic half dollar combines historical significance with tangible bullion value.

About the Franklin Half Dollar Series

The Franklin Half Dollar was minted from 1948 to 1963, replacing the Walking Liberty design that had graced American coinage since 1916. Designed by renowned sculptor John Sinnock, the Franklin series features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse (front) side, honoring one of America's most influential Founding Fathers and polymaths. The reverse showcases an eagle landing on a rock, a symbol of American strength and freedom.

Franklin Half Dollars hold a special place in the hearts of serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. These coins bridge the gap between the classic pre-1933 gold era and modern coinage, making them a crucial component of any comprehensive American coin collection.

The 1958 Mintage and Rarity

The 1958 Franklin Half Dollar was produced during a period of significant coin production in the United States. Minted at the Philadelphia location (identified by the absence of a mint mark), this coin represents the mid-point of the Franklin series' production run. The 1958 date is actively sought after by collectors working on completing Franklin Half Dollar sets and those interested in coins from the post-war era of American history.

This specific year holds particular appeal due to its availability in higher grades compared to some other years in the series, making MS63 specimens like this one valuable for both type collectors and date collectors.

Silver Content and Bullion Value

Each Franklin Half Dollar from 1948-1963 contains 90% pure silver with 10% copper, a standard composition for U.S. circulating coins of that era. This 1958 specimen contains exactly 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver (.900 fine silver), making it a tangible asset with inherent precious metal value. For investors and collectors alike, the silver content provides a floor value and appeals to those interested in silver bullion with numismatic premium.

The combination of precious metal content and numismatic collectibility makes Franklin Half Dollars popular among both bullion investors and traditional numismatists. Unlike modern bullion coins, these pieces offer the added benefit of historical authenticity and collectible appeal.

NGC MS63 Certification and Grade Explanation

This coin has been authenticated and graded by NGC, one of the two leading third-party grading services in the numismatic industry. The MS63 designation indicates "Mint State 63," meaning the coin shows no signs of wear from circulation. Mint State coins are those that have never entered commerce and retain their original luster from the minting process.

An MS63 grade represents a coin with moderate eye appeal and some bag marks or contact marks consistent with typical handling during storage. The obverse and reverse both display original luster, though perhaps not as perfectly as higher grades. This grade point represents an excellent balance between quality and affordability, offering collectors a well-preserved specimen without the premium associated with higher grades like MS65 or MS66.

The professional certification provides assurance of authenticity and grade consistency, eliminating questions about the coin's condition and composition. NGC certification protects your investment and provides confidence in your purchase.

Design Features and Iconography

The obverse features Benjamin Franklin in left profile, accompanied by the inscription "LIBERTY" and the year "1958." Franklin's likeness captures the dignity and intelligence of this Founding Father, who served as a diplomat, inventor, scientist, and statesman. His presence on coinage reflects America's respect for his contributions to the nation's founding and development.

The reverse displays a majestic eagle landing on a rock with wings spread wide, symbolizing American freedom and strength. The words "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "HALF DOLLAR" appear on the reverse, along with the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM." The eagle design was modeled after the iconic eagle that appeared on older American coinage and remains one of the most beloved reverse designs in U.S. numismatic history.

Collecting Franklin Half Dollars

Franklin Half Dollars have become increasingly popular with modern collectors for several compelling reasons. The series is finite and complete, running only 16 years, making it achievable for collectors to assemble complete date and mintmark sets. The historical timeframe—post-World War II America—holds significant interest for those studying mid-20th century American history.

Many collectors enjoy the pursuit of upgrading their Franklin collections by acquiring higher grade specimens. An MS63 1958 Franklin represents a solid mid-grade example that demonstrates excellent preservation while remaining affordable compared to exceptional grades. The 1958 is particularly popular as it completes many collector sets and represents a key date in the series.

Historical Significance and Era

The 1958 Franklin Half Dollar was minted during a transformative period in American history. The late 1950s marked the height of American industrial power, the space race's early excitement, and significant cultural development. Coins minted during this era serve as tangible reminders of this important historical period, making them valuable not just as currency, but as historical artifacts.

Franklin Half Dollars were the last 90% silver coins to circulate regularly in American commerce before the transition to clad compositions in 1965. This distinction makes them historically important markers of a transition point in American monetary policy and coinage history.

Investment and Collector Appeal

This 1958 Franklin Half Dollar offers multiple avenues of value appreciation. The precious metal content provides a base value that fluctuates with silver markets. The numismatic premium reflects collector demand for Franklin Half Dollars, particularly those in certified Mint State grades. The combination of these factors makes Franklin Half Dollars appealing to diversified collectors who appreciate both bullion value and numismatic appreciation potential.

As populations of certified high-grade Franklins continue to be absorbed into collections, remaining examples frequently appreciate in value. The MS63 grade represents an excellent balance for the value-conscious collector seeking substantial eye appeal without excessive cost.

Storage and Preservation

This certified coin comes housed in an NGC protective slab, which is specifically designed to preserve the coin in its current condition. The clear holder allows for full viewing of both obverse and reverse while protecting against environmental factors. We recommend maintaining storage in a cool, dry location away from excessive humidity and temperature fluctuations to ensure long-term preservation.

The professional certification and protective holder ensure that your 1958 Franklin Half Dollar will maintain its MS63 grade and condition for years to come, making it an excellent addition to any serious collection.

Product Specifications Summary

• Year: 1958
• Coin Type: Franklin Half Dollar
• Mint Mark: No mint mark (Philadelphia Mint)
• Denomination: 50 Cents (Half Dollar)
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Silver Content: 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver
• Diameter: 30.61 millimeters
• Weight: 12.5 grams
• Certification: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
• Grade: MS63 (Mint State 63)
• Obverse Design: Benjamin Franklin (left profile)
• Reverse Design: Eagle landing on rock
• Condition: No wear from circulation; original mint luster
• Holder: Professional NGC protective slab

Why Choose This 1958 Franklin Half Dollar?

Whether you are a dedicated Franklin Half Dollar collector, a numismatic enthusiast, or a precious metals investor, this 1958 MS63 specimen offers exceptional value. The certified grade provides peace of mind regarding authenticity and condition assessment. The combination of historical significance, artistic merit, silver content, and collectible appeal makes this coin an excellent addition to any collection.

The 1958 Franklin represents an accessible entry point for those seeking to build Franklin Half Dollar collections, while the MS63 grade appeals to collectors seeking quality without the premium associated with gem-grade specimens. With 0.3617 ounces of pure silver backed by numismatic premium, this coin serves collectors' interests in both tangible asset ownership and historical collecting.

Add this exceptional 1958 Franklin Half Dollar to your collection today and own a piece of American numismatic and precious metals history.