If you like the value of the Franklins you might look into Morgan dollars. There are tons of them in uncirculated condition for not much over melt. They look great too.
I'll have to second that Merc, they are beautiful coins in all grades. I like the Saint Gaudens Double Eagle, that is the most beautiful US coin in my opinion. But Merc's start getting blindingly nice at around MS-64. I think for around $50, I would buy a album or folder and start on Merc's.