Complete History of the Silver Eagle Coin

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The Franklin Half Dollar was the coin that replaced the Walking Liberty in 1948. Introduction of the Ben Franklin Half Dollar had been widely announced by the U. S. Mint, and both collectors and the general public stashed many examples soon after their release. Coming during an economic recession, this first issue saw a relatively limited production. The enormous mintage of half dollars during the war years had led to reduced production during 1946-47, and this carried over into the new series. If not for the saving of 1948(P) half dollars by the roll, as was the custom of so many collectors and dealers at the time, this issue might have been slightly scarce. Gems are plentiful through the grade of MS-65, with enough MS-66 coins to satisfy the more advanced collectors. The desirable designation FBL (full bell lines) is readily available, too. The one notable variety for 1948(P) is FS-801, a nice doubled die reverse that is similar to a like variety on the Denver Mint edition.