-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 19753
Checkout
The Certified Franklin Half Dollar 1956 MS64FBL NGC is a standout example of mid-20th century American coinage, offering collectors the perfect combination of aesthetic beauty, historical significance, and technical designation. As part of the Franklin Half Dollar series minted from 1948 to 1963, the 1956 issue is noteworthy for being among the earlier years of production and for featuring sharp, well-preserved detail in the Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation. Certified by NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) as Mint State 64 with Full Bell Lines, this coin strikes a balance between high-grade uncirculated condition and affordability, making it an appealing acquisition for both Franklin specialists and general U.S. coin collectors.
The Franklin Half Dollar series was introduced in 1948 to honor Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and a key figure in the American Enlightenment. The coin’s designer, John R. Sinnock, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, created the obverse portrait based on a bust by Jean-Antoine Houdon. Franklin’s image replaced the more traditional depictions of Liberty used in previous series, reflecting a post-war shift toward honoring influential Americans. This made the Franklin Half Dollar one of the first circulating U.S. coins to feature a real, non-presidential individual, highlighting Franklin’s importance in American civic and scientific life.
The obverse of the 1956 Franklin Half Dollar displays a left-facing bust of Benjamin Franklin, with the inscriptions “LIBERTY” above and “IN GOD WE TRUST” below, and the date “1956” placed to the right of Franklin’s shoulder. The portrait is crisp and refined, showing Franklin’s distinctive hair, prominent brow, and thoughtful expression. On a Mint State 64 example, this side of the coin retains excellent luster and strong strike details, with only minor contact marks or hairlines that are typical of the grade. The overall eye appeal remains high, with shimmering brilliance and clean, well-defined features that reflect the quality of the Mint State designation.
The reverse of the coin features the Liberty Bell, complete with its iconic crack, flanked by a small eagle at the right—added to satisfy the legal requirement that half dollars depict an eagle. Above the bell is the inscription “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” while “HALF DOLLAR” arches below. The motto “E PLURIBUS UNUM” is positioned to the left of the bell. The Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation refers specifically to the horizontal lines at the bottom of the Liberty Bell. When all the lines are completely struck and uninterrupted, a coin can earn the coveted FBL designation. On the 1956 issue, this is not common, making FBL examples certified by NGC highly sought after.
The Philadelphia Mint struck 4,032,000 Franklin Half Dollars in 1956, a relatively low mintage compared to some earlier and later dates in the series. While the coin is not considered rare in general Mint State grades, finding examples with Full Bell Lines elevates it into a more exclusive tier. The minting process during the 1950s often produced coins with incomplete or softly struck features, especially on the reverse. Thus, coins with sharp, full horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell are much less common. The FBL designation from NGC assures collectors that this coin exhibits a fully struck bell with uninterrupted lines—an essential detail for those assembling high-end Franklin sets.
The condition of the Certified Franklin Half Dollar 1956 MS64FBL NGC is exceptional for a coin that has remained uncirculated for more than six decades. In Mint State 64, the coin shows no wear from circulation, and the surfaces exhibit strong mint luster and visual appeal. Minor contact marks may be visible, primarily in the fields or on the high points of Franklin’s cheek and the bell’s surface, but they do not detract from the overall quality or beauty of the piece. The coin’s original luster may range from bright white to soft, natural toning, both of which are desirable depending on collector preferences.
The importance of the Full Bell Lines designation lies in the Franklin series' focus on strike quality. Because the Liberty Bell design requires precise pressure and die alignment, many coins—even in uncirculated condition—lack complete definition of the horizontal lines. The presence of FBL confirms that the coin was struck with enough force and from a well-prepared die, preserving the design in its fullest detail. This adds a layer of scarcity and desirability, particularly among registry collectors who prioritize FBL coins to complete competitive sets. As such, a 1956 MS64FBL is a key example that delivers both grade and strike excellence.
NGC’s certification process ensures that the coin meets strict standards for authenticity, condition, and strike. The encapsulated holder provides long-term protection and includes a label detailing the date, mint, grade, and FBL designation. This level of assurance is particularly important for collectors seeking consistency and quality in their collections. With an MS64 grade and FBL status, this coin ranks high in both value and desirability, offering a strong combination of eye appeal and technical merit at a more accessible price point than higher-grade MS65FBL or MS66FBL examples.
The Franklin Half Dollar series remains popular with collectors for its historical theme, distinctive design, and the challenge of collecting coins with the Full Bell Lines designation. The 1956 issue is a solid mid-series example, bridging the earlier years of low mintages with the higher output of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Its attractive appearance, reasonable availability in high grades, and the difficulty of locating FBL examples in MS64 or higher ensure that it retains long-term interest and collector value. As part of a complete date-and-mintmark set or as a standalone piece, the 1956 MS64FBL makes an excellent addition to any U.S. coin collection.
The Certified Franklin Half Dollar 1956 MS64FBL NGC embodies the artistry, technical achievement, and historical narrative that define American coinage in the mid-20th century. Its perfect combination of a well-known American icon, sharp design execution, and certified condition status make it a highly collectible coin for enthusiasts of silver coinage, 20th-century history, and numismatic refinement. With its bold Franklin portrait, crisp Liberty Bell, and full horizontal bell lines, this coin continues to resonate with collectors who seek both beauty and precision in their acquisitions. As the years progress, well-preserved FBL specimens like this one are sure to grow even more treasured within the numismatic community.