Proof 1958 Franklin Half Dollar

I was going through some of my coins that I have not looked at in a long time and I found a rather interesting proof Franklin Half Dollar. The entire coin is covered in a milky patina that gives it a very unique look. I have two questions for our forum members. Have you ever seen this toning pattern before? And do you find this toning attractive?

 

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I don't tend to like brown or black toning at all. I will say that I usually enjoy most of the toned coins that you have, Paul, although it seems to me that you lean towards the blue tones over all. Or maybe that's just the ones that I remember because I like them.

Sorry, but over all I give this coin a thumbs down.

 

The rim toning on the obverse is too dark for me. I do like the sky blue tone on the reverse though especially because it is not overshadowed by the dark rim toning. Hard for me to vote in the poll but would have to lean 'No.' TC

 

You have better coins, that's for sure!
Steve

 

It's funny because I actually think this advanced haze improves the eye appeal of the coin. I have never been a big fan of proof coins or their mirrored appearance, but I do appreciate the strike and full details achieved by most proof issues. This toning all but eliminates the mirrored look making it almost appear like a mint state example at first glance. The dark toning at the peripheries is not as distracting as the photo makes it appear and it is actually violet in color.

Where is baha? He loves toned proof Franklins. I would love to hear his opinion about this coin.

 

I like this coin. I do like more, however, when the whole coin is blackened and produces a two-toned effect. I like the contrast if the divide between the dark and silver are clean and well defined. The darkening of the lettering is a little off-putting for me. I would prefer if only the fields were darkened and the relief parts were original color. All in all i like thos one though. It's very unique.

 

I REALLY don't like the dark rim toning or the haze! It looks like something that was in a burning building!

 

Instructor Alex,

Have you ever seen a coin that was in a fire? Because they don't look like this at all. I appreciate that you don't like the eye appeal of the coin, but comparing it to something that has survived a fire is a little dramatic IMO.

I have re-imaged this coin using diffused lighting so that everyone can see that actual colors of the peripheral toning. These colors are very apparent in hand but appear almost black when imaged using direct lighting.

Diffused Lighting



Direct Lighting



I have a sneaky suspicion that many of those who dislike this coin would change their mind once seeing it in hand.

 

I will admit, Paul, that I definitely can see the violet better in the diffused lighting.

unfortunately, even in-hand with the violets, I would not be among the many. On a mint state coin, maybe, but not attractive toning on a proof IMHO.

 

I prefer brilliant white Frankies...though, admittedly, toners seem to command premiums. Perhaps your coin inspired the Jimi Hendrix tune, "Purple Haze...all through my brain..." :too-cool-for:

 

Will it stay in this state or will it continue down the Road to Perdition? Do you know what causes haze like that?

 

Paul from the first set of pics It's not for me but seeing the second set of pics . I like it . Bet it looks better in hand where you can rotate it and see all the different colors .
Rusty

 

I am currently putting together a set of Franklins and I'll have to say that I don't find this one attractive, even for a toned. Overall I'm not really a "toner" kind of guy. Show me a "blast white" one and I'm in love.

 

I read this thread earlier this morning and was going to respond but got side tracked with some personal issues. Going by the original pics, there was something that attracted me. The dark toning on the edges didn't deter me. I was seeing more. A slight blue? Not quite sure but my first thoughts were, "I like this coin". Seeing the second pair of pics, I like it even more. I'm mostly a "blast white' guy, but I do enjoy coins that exhibit character........

 

A little dark for my tastes. And I did not see the second set of pictures. Interesting coin based off the lighting.

 

+1. I'm also assembling a Proof/MS Franklin Set in a Littleton album. Like the "Blast Whites" as well!
Steve

 

Well there is nothing wrong with having a bullion collection.




I like them too!

 

Having a collection that can be worth something down the road is great!

 

VERY Nice, Lehigh! Thank You for sharing!!
Steve