Good afternoon folks! I just acquired a very nice complete collection of Franklin half dollars as part of an estate purchase. The type is not my specialty but I have done a decent bit of reading on the FBL designation in recent days. It is my understanding that PCGS only requires the bottom set of lines to be intact. That is the standard I’d like to use to evaluate these coins. I went through the book, and these are the examples that I think are in consideration for the FBL designation. I know the lighting in the photos is a bit off or at least inconsistent but my goal was to capture detail on the bell lines. All the coins have tremendous luster. I’d love to hear input on each or any of these coins I. Terms of FBL and if they rise to the ms65 or ms66 level of GEM BU. Grading Franklins has long been a mystery to me. Thanks in advance!
I'd rather the top lines to be included and the reason why FBL is a designation. Most of them seem to be well struck.
I feel pretty good about most of these strikes. I am curious how the various hits impact the grade. What is the standard for ms65 or 66? Also, I’m playing with my photo setup. I recently got a led ring light that attaches to my iPhone and think the results are pretty good. Here’s a test run:
While PCGS only requires the bottom set of lines, I don't consider that to really be FBL. If that's what you like, go for it... we'll have to agree to disagree. Even for PCGS, however, you have to remember that marks and interruptions will knock it out - just like Full Steps. So for that reason, the 1956, 60, and 49S probably won't make it. 54S is a tough date in FBL at NGC because they require both sets of lines. It is considerably easier at PCGS, but still a difficult date. I believe the 54S you show would make PCGS FBL.
Probably a 65. I'd have a hard time calling it 66 with the prominent reed mark in the obverse field right in front of his face.
I think the only two that make $$$ sense to send in for grading would be the 52S and 54S. PCGS guide values for the 52s are 800/1250/1600 for 64/65/66 (FBL) and the 54s is 85/275/900 Here are newer images.
I don't think that you should send them in, I can't see a third line, the lower part of the die was probably filled with debri.
I agree with Pickin. They are really nice, but the requirements for FBL are very stringent, and I don't think hese are quite there. ( I sympathize, I have a few almost-FBLs myself.)
