- 727-572-6323
- Free shipping over $199
| Qty. | Wire / Check | Credit / Debit Card |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - 20 | $13.17 | $13.70 |
| 21 - 200 | $11.67 | $12.14 |
| 201+ | $10.97 | $11.41 |
Benjamin Franklin was one of the most influential Founding Fathers of the United States, but his role was far from the battlefields or the halls of Congress throughout much of his career. Franklin was an inventor and writer, and more importantly, an overseas diplomat currying favor for the American cause during the Revolution.
Coin Highlights:
The path to appearance on coinage for Benjamin Franklin was a complicated one. Under an 1890 statute, coin designs could not be changed without Congressional approval unless the design had been in service for 25 years including the first issue year.
Starting in 1933, US Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross wanted to see the man she admired on the nation’s coinage. However, the quarter had just been redesigned in 1932 to feature George Washington. The Walking Liberty Half Dollar and Mercury Dime could be changed without Congressional approval in 1940, but World War II interfered.
The high demand for coins during World War II made it difficult to replace designs, with the half dollar and dime eligible as of 1940. In 1946, the dime was redesigned to honor the recently deceased President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
That left the Walking Liberty Half Dollar to be replaced with Franklin’s likeness. Benjamin Franklin appeared on the obverse of the half dollar from 1948 until 1964, when his image was replaced by that of the assassinated John F. Kennedy. Franklin’s right-profile portrait was created by mint engraver John R. Sinnock, who also created a Liberty Bell design for the reverse.
The reverse side of the 90% Silver Franklin Half Dollars was dominated by the Liberty Bell, an iconic landmark of Franklin’s hometown of Philadelphia, PA. However, US law dictated that the American bald eagle must appear on the reverse of all half dollars, so a small heraldic eagle was put in on the bell’s right.
"Amazing service and hospitality from the staff at IDC! Jason was so attentive and patient in our search for our ideal watches. He took us through several options, had us try every watch we were interested in, took our information and continued searching for options. A few hours later, we had our watches on hold and ready for pick up! He located a watch that I LOVE, and a unique piece for my husband. We are grateful to have found our new Jeweler for many pieces to come!"
Verified Customer
"We loved our experience at IDC. Jason was very kind and patient with us. My fiancée and I found good options for our wedding bands. He made sure we found what we were looking for and provided all the details we needed, including comfort, value, and style. We also felt safe and comfortable at their shop, thanks to the double doors and security guard."
Verified Customer
"Jason was absolutely amazing! Extremely professional and very knowledgeable in helping us with the ring selection process. We actually ended up taking his advice on the bands and are very happy with our decision. We absolutely enjoyed our wedding band shopping experience and would recommend Jason to future buyers as well!"
Verified Customer
"Lila was extremely helpful. My finance and I were on a tight time crunch to get wedding bands and she was very knowledgeable and swift with making sure we had rings for our ceremony. She suggested great bands and was so kind and honest through our selection. I will definitely return to IDC and always ask for Lila!"
Verified Customer
"Our experience with Lee and the staff at International Diamond Center was outstanding. Lee’s interest was helping us find the right ring and diamond. He was straight forward, honest, and patient. We found the perfect ring and diamond at a fair price. appreciated the communication after the sale keeping us informed on the status of my wife’s new 40th anniversary wedding ring."
Verified Customer
