CoinWeek Giveaway # 633 Sponsored by…1956 TYPE 2 FRANKLIN NGC PF 68 STAR- “We The People” Inset

A Mid-Century Masterpiece with Eye Appeal That Stops Collectors Cold

The 1956 Franklin Half Dollar Proof Type 2 stands as one of the most visually compelling coins of the series. More importantly, this example, graded PF68★ by Numismatic Guaranty Company, captures a pivotal moment in U.S. Mint history.

At first glance, it shines with bold reflectivity and striking detail. However, the real story begins with a subtle design change that reshaped the Franklin series forever.

The Backstory: A Quiet Change That Created a Collector Favorite

In 1956, the United States Mint made a deliberate adjustment to the Franklin Half Dollar’s reverse design.

Earlier proof coins from 1950 through early 1956 used what collectors now call the Type 1 reverse. This version features:

• A lower-relief eagle
• Four thin feathers to the left of the perch

Then, mid-year, everything changed.

The Mint introduced the Type 2 reverse, which displays:

• A bolder eagle in higher relief
• Only three long, distinct feathers to the left of the perch

That shift may sound minor. Yet collectors quickly recognized the difference. Today, the Type 2 reverse defines the final era of Franklin proofs through 1963.

Even more intriguing, Type 1 coins account for only about 5% of the total mintage. As a result, the Type 2 became the standard—but not necessarily the most visually impressive.

Why the ★ (Star) Designation Matters

Not every high-grade coin earns a star. In fact, fewer than 1% of eligible coins receive this distinction from NGC.

The ★ designation signals exceptional eye appeal beyond the numeric grade. For a PF68 coin, that means this example rises above others with the same technical score.

NGC awards the Star based on three key visual traits:

• Vibrant toning
  Rich, natural colors enhance the coin without hiding its brilliance.
• Superior luster
  Strong reflectivity creates intense “flash” under light.
• Striking contrast
  Near-Cameo or near-Ultra Cameo contrast can elevate the coin’s visual impact.

Because of these factors, collectors actively seek out Star-designated coins for Registry Sets and elite collections.

Technical Specifications

This proof issue reflects the craftsmanship of mid-century U.S. coinage:

• Mintage: 669,384
• Composition: 90% silver, 10% copper
• Weight: 12.5 grams
• Diameter: 30.6 mm

Although the Type 2 reverse appears more frequently than the Type 1, true high-end examples remain difficult to locate, especially with premium eye appeal.

Rarity Meets Demand: Market Perspective

However, the story changes with the Star designation.

Coins graded PF68★ often command $240 or more, depending on:

• Colorful toning
• Strong cameo contrast
• Overall visual impact

In other words, collectors do not just buy the grade—they compete for the look.

Why This Coin Stands Out

This 1956 Type 2 Franklin Half Dollar Proof represents more than a late-series issue. It marks a design evolution, a technical achievement, and a modern collecting challenge all in one.

Furthermore, the ★ designation transforms it from a high-grade coin into a standout showpiece.

For serious Franklin Half Dollar collectors, this coin delivers the perfect combination of:

• Historical significance
• Scarcity in top condition
• Exceptional visual appeal

That combination creates lasting demand—and undeniable “wow” factor.

Read More about U.S.Coins on CoinWeek

Entries into our Contest are accepted from  March 21st  until 8 PM on Saturday March 28th, 2026

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