1958(D) Silver Franklin Half Dollar - NGC MS63 Graded Coin

This exceptional 1958(D) Franklin Half Dollar represents a significant piece of American numismatic history. Minted at the Denver facility during the final years of this beloved series, this coin has been professionally graded by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) and certified as MS63, indicating a near-gem quality specimen with outstanding eye appeal and historical significance.

Coin Specifications

• Date: 1958
• Mint Mark: D (Denver Mint)
• Denomination: Half Dollar (50 cents)
• Silver Content: 90% pure silver
• Actual Silver Weight: 0.3617 troy ounces
• Total Weight: 11.25 grams
• Diameter: 30.61 millimeters
• Grade: MS63 (Mint State)
• Grading Authority: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper

About the Franklin Half Dollar Series

The Franklin Half Dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, stands as one of the most iconic and cherished coin series in American numismatic history. Designed by renowned sculptor John R. Sinnock, this half dollar was created to honor Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and a man whose contributions to American science, diplomacy, and philosophy were immeasurable.

Benjamin Franklin's selection for this coin was particularly fitting, as he was never honored on circulating U.S. coinage during his lifetime. The Franklin Half Dollar series provided a lasting tribute to his legacy and ensured his profile would be recognized by millions of Americans for generations to come.

Historical Context of 1958

The year 1958 was significant in American history and in the world of coinage. By this time, the Franklin Half Dollar series was in its final decade of production. The 1958(D) Denver mint specimen represents coins produced during a period when American prosperity and optimism were reshaping the nation's economy and culture.

Denver Mint coins from this era are particularly sought after by collectors, as the Denver facility produced coins with distinctive characteristics that differ slightly from other mint facilities. The "D" mint mark on the reverse of this coin beneath the eagle identifies it as a product of the Denver Mint, one of the most historically significant coining facilities in the United States.

Design and Artistic Merit

The obverse (front) of this coin features a left-facing profile portrait of Benjamin Franklin, designed by John R. Sinnock. The inscription "LIBERTY" appears along the left side, while the motto "IN GOD WE TRUST" is positioned below Franklin's chin. The date "1958" and mint mark "D" complete the obverse design.

The reverse (back) displays an eagle in flight, symbolizing American strength and freedom. This eagle design, also created by Sinnock, shows the bird soaring with wings spread wide, holding an olive branch in its talons—a symbol of peace. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "HALF DOLLAR," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM" surround the eagle in elegant lettering.

Silver Content and Bullion Value

With a confirmed silver content of 0.3617 troy ounces of pure 90% silver, this 1958(D) Franklin Half Dollar holds significant bullion value in addition to its numismatic worth. The 90% silver composition makes this coin a desirable holding for precious metals investors and collectors alike. During the late 1950s, the United States government still mandated this high silver content in half dollars, making coins from this era valuable repositories of precious metals.

The intrinsic silver value combined with the coin's age, rarity, and collectibility creates a compelling investment opportunity. Whether acquired as part of a precious metals portfolio or as a numismatic collectible, this coin offers multiple layers of value.

NGC MS63 Grading Explanation

The NGC MS63 grade indicates this coin is in Mint State condition, meaning it has never been in circulation and retains the original luster from the mint. The "63" numeric grade specifically designates it as a "Select Uncirculated" coin, representing exceptional quality.

In MS63 condition, this Franklin Half Dollar displays:

• Strong, original mint luster across the majority of the coin's surfaces
• Well-defined details in Franklin's portrait and the eagle design
• Minor imperfections visible only under close examination
• Eye appeal that exceeds average uncirculated specimens
• Professional authentication and certification by NGC, the industry standard

Collectibility and Rarity

The 1958(D) Franklin Half Dollar is a moderately available date within the series, though finding examples in quality grades is increasingly difficult as coins are lost to melting, damage, and deterioration. The MS63 grade elevates this specimen above common examples, making it particularly attractive to serious collectors.

Franklin Half Dollars have become increasingly popular in recent years among numismatists who appreciate the artistic merit of the series, the historical significance of the coins, and the solid silver content. This growing collector interest has contributed to rising values for key dates and premium grades like this MS63 specimen.

Investment Perspective

Collectors and investors have recognized the Franklin Half Dollar series as offering excellent value in the current numismatic market. The combination of affordable entry points, reliable demand, and intrinsic precious metals content makes these coins attractive to both serious numismatists and casual investors seeking tangible assets.

This 1958(D) MS63 example represents an opportunity to acquire a certified, investment-grade silver coin from a beloved and historically important series. The NGC certification provides assurance of authenticity and grade, offering confidence to buyers unfamiliar with grading standards.

Why Choose This Coin

Historical Significance: Own a piece of American history featuring one of the nation's most important Founding Fathers.

Precious Metals Content: Secure 0.3617 troy ounces of 90% pure silver in a recognizable, historically important form.

Professional Certification: NGC grading provides independent authentication and grade assessment by leading numismatic experts.

Exceptional Condition: The MS63 grade ensures this is an above-average example of the 1958(D) Franklin Half Dollar.

Collectible Appeal: Franklin Half Dollars remain among the most popular series with both beginning and advanced collectors.

Care and Storage Recommendations

To preserve the condition and value of this certified coin, it should be stored in a cool, dry environment, preferably in the NGC holder in which it was graded. Avoid handling the coin with bare hands, as skin oils and perspiration can affect the surface. Store away from excessive heat, moisture, and environmental pollutants that could compromise the silver or the certificate.

Perfect Addition to Collections

Whether you're building a complete Franklin Half Dollar collection by date and mint mark, assembling a portfolio of precious metals investments, or seeking individual specimens of historical significance, this 1958(D) NGC MS63 Franklin Half Dollar is an excellent choice that combines numismatic appeal with tangible value.