Rare American Coins

Tuesday, January 26th, 2010 at 9:07 am

Franklin half dollars are often unknown to many novice coin collectors. The reason for this appears to lie in the fact that Kennedy silver half dollars are most famous. The other reason may also lie in the fact that Walking Liberty dollars are more desired by collectors. Nevertheless, Franklin fifty cent pieces are an excellent option for investors looking to diversify their portfolio in these troubled economic times when paper stock certificates no longer hold the same glamour or worth they once did.

As the name indicates, the Franklin silver half dollars bear the likeness of great American inventor and diplomat, Benjamin Franklin. The reverse side of the coin bears an image of the famous Liberty Bell.

Like the Kennedy and Walking Liberty coins, they are composed of 90% silver and also contain 10% copper. Each coin contained 0.36 ounces of silver, though wear does lessen the content slightly overtime. Between 1948 and1963, the U.S. minted around 309.4 million of these beautiful coins.

One thing to remember for the novice investor in coins is that basically buying bags of "junk" U.S. 90% silver coins are essentially making a bullion investment, though the coins do have historic significance. The term junk here simply refers to circulated coins versus uncirculated or special pieces designated so because of the year they were minted or other historical significance.

The benefit of opting for this type of investment is the relative inexpensive nature of these coins. Having them in your hands is also something quite reassuring. Whatever happens, their worth will never drop to zero and the fact that civilizations throughout history have opted for it or gold as the basis of currency is something to consider.

Jacob Lumbroso is a world traveler and an enthusiast for foreign languages, history, and foreign cultures. He writes articles on history and languages and recommends BlueAir Air Purifiers and Electronic Air Purifier.