(Serial Number may vary)

1958 Silver Franklin Half Dollar - 0.3617oz - NGC MS64 Graded Coin

This exceptional 1958 Franklin Half Dollar represents a classic piece of American numismatic history. Graded MS64 by NGC, this coin showcases the artistic legacy of one of America's most beloved coin designs. With its substantial silver content of 0.3617 ounces of pure silver, this piece holds both historical significance and intrinsic metal value, making it an excellent addition to any serious collector's portfolio.

About the Franklin Half Dollar Series

The Franklin Half Dollar series, produced from 1948 to 1963, represents a pivotal era in United States coinage. Designed by renowned sculptor John Sinnock, these coins were created to honor Benjamin Franklin, one of the nation's founding fathers. Franklin's image graced the obverse of the coin, while the reverse featured an eagle landing on a rock, symbolizing freedom and American pride.

The Franklin Half Dollar is particularly significant because it was the first circulating U.S. coin to feature a non-president. This decision sparked considerable debate at the time, but ultimately resulted in one of the most respected and collected series in numismatic history. Today, these coins are highly sought after by collectors and investors alike.

Why the 1958 Vintage is Notable

The 1958 Franklin Half Dollar holds special appeal in the collecting community. Produced during the height of the series' popularity, coins from this year can be found in varying grades, with higher grades like this NGC MS64 specimen being increasingly difficult to locate. The 1958 issue was minted in substantial quantities, yet the passage of time means that well-preserved examples have become progressively scarcer.

MS64 graded coins represent coins of superior quality with exceptional eye appeal. At this grade level, the coin displays full lustrous surfaces with only light, scattered contact marks that are barely noticeable to the naked eye. The strike is typically sharp, and the luster remains vibrant—hallmarks of a coin that has been carefully preserved for over six decades.

Specifications & Details

• Year of Issue: 1958
• Denomination: Half Dollar (50 cents)
• Coin Type: Franklin Half Dollar
• Designer: John Sinnock (Obverse and Reverse)
• Grading Service: NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company)
• Grade: MS64 (Mint State 64)
• Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
• Silver Content: 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver
• Total Weight: Approximately 12.50 grams
• Diameter: 30.61 millimeters
• Thickness: 2.15 millimeters
• Mint Mark: Varies by location (Philadelphia, Denver, or San Francisco)

Silver Content and Bullion Value

One of the most attractive features of the 1958 Franklin Half Dollar is its substantial silver content. With 0.3617 troy ounces of pure .900 fine silver, this coin contains genuine precious metal value that extends beyond its numismatic appeal. This makes it an excellent choice for collectors who appreciate both the historical significance and the intrinsic metal value of their acquisitions.

For investors seeking to acquire silver bullion in historically significant form, Franklin Half Dollars offer an interesting alternative to modern bullion products. The combination of recognized collector value and underlying silver content provides a unique investment proposition that appeals to diverse buyer demographics.

Condition and Grading

The NGC MS64 grade assigned to this coin indicates exceptional preservation. Mint State grades (ranging from MS60 to MS70) denote coins that have never seen circulation and retain their original mint luster. MS64 specifically indicates a coin that is nearly perfect, with minimal imperfections visible only under magnification.

At this grade level, the coin displays:

• Exceptional eye appeal with attractive original luster
• Sharp, well-defined details throughout the design
• Contact marks that are sparse and inconspicuous
• Full brilliance in the fields and on the design elements
• Proper color consistent with 90% silver coins of this age

Historical Context of 1958

The year 1958 was a significant period in American history. The nation was experiencing post-war prosperity, and the coin-collecting hobby was experiencing a renaissance. The Franklin Half Dollar series was in its final years of production before being replaced by the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964, making this 1958 example part of the final vintage years of this beloved design.

Coins from 1958 represent a bridge between the early years of the Franklin series and its conclusion. Their production volumes and survival rates have made them important pieces for completing Franklin Half Dollar collections, while their condition rarity has elevated their value among discerning collectors.

Collector Appeal and Investment Potential

Franklin Half Dollars have demonstrated remarkable staying power in the collector marketplace. Their combination of historical importance, artistic merit, and precious metal content continues to drive demand. MS64 examples like this 1958 coin represent the sweet spot for many collectors—significant condition rarity without approaching the extreme premiums commanded by MS65 and higher grades.

Whether you're a seasoned numismatist looking to complete your Franklin series, a silver bullion investor seeking historically significant pieces, or a collector new to U.S. coinage, this 1958 Franklin Half Dollar offers exceptional value and potential for appreciation.

Certification and Authenticity

This coin has been professionally graded and certified by NGC, one of the two leading independent third-party grading companies in the United States. The NGC certification provides authentication and a detailed assessment of the coin's condition. The coin arrives in an NGC holder, which protects the coin while allowing full visibility of both sides. This professional assessment ensures you're receiving exactly what is described and provides confidence in your acquisition.

Perfect for Various Collector Types

This 1958 Franklin Half Dollar appeals to multiple collecting interests:

• Franklin Half Dollar Specialists: Essential for completing date and mint mark sets
• Silver Bullion Investors: Combines precious metal content with collector premium value
• Type Coin Collectors: Represents the Franklin Half Dollar type with excellent eye appeal
• U.S. History Enthusiasts: Celebrates Benjamin Franklin and American heritage
• Vintage Coin Collectors: Offers authentic mid-20th century coinage

Conclusion

This 1958 Franklin Half Dollar graded MS64 by NGC represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire a piece of American numismatic heritage. With its exceptional grade, substantial silver content of 0.3617 ounces, and historical significance, this coin offers tangible value, proven collector appeal, and the pleasure of owning a genuinely scarce piece of United States coinage. Whether viewed as a collector's item, a silver investment, or a historical artifact, this coin deserves serious consideration from anyone interested in quality numismatic acquisitions.