Can someone explain the difference between a Type I and a Type II 1956 Franklin Half Dollar? Thanks, Steve
Welcome to the forum Steve. A very interesting question! The Red Book doesn't mention any types for the Frankies - 1956 or other years - and the only thing I've been able to find on the internet is that the PCGS Price Guide lists a Type 2 Proof. We have a member who's a real expert on the series. She hasn't posted here in quite a while, and I'm trying to track her down and get her to answer your question. Good luck.
Early in 56 (I forget the month) The master dies were reworked for proof Franklin coins. The result was a more defined Eagle with more detail then what was previously seen. I am refering to the Eagle on the Reverse of the coin. A very easy comparision is to simply look at a proof Frankie from 1955 or older and compare the Eagle with a proof Frankie from 1957 or newer. This will help you learn what a Type 1 Eagle is vs a Type 2. Here is a image of a Type 1 Eagle: Now I want you to notice the lack of detail in the Eagles breast feathers, as well as the wing feathers which almost disappear into the field of the coin. Notice the shape of the Eagles beak also. All proof Frankies from 1950 - 1955 will have this Eagle, and a certian number from 1956. Here is a Type 2 Eagle: Notice the very visable breast feathers and the strong wing feathers, also the beak isn't as pointy as a Type 1. Once you train your eyes to these differences, you can spot a 56 Type 1 Frankie with ease. And know that the Type 1 is the scarcer of the two issues that occured in 1956. In fact, if you can find a 56 Type 1 in Cam or even DCAM, this would be a relatively major score, particularly if it was to grade pr67 or above... Search those proof sets and here is another hint, many of the so-called third teir grading companys do not desginate these coins, ICG, NTC, ACG, and often these Jewels (Type 1 Franklins) can be found in their holders... At any rate, happy collecting! the HepKitty
Thanks Thanks very much for the information! It was very helpful. You really DO know your stuff when it comes to Frankies! Steve
My book from Rick Tomaska says that the dates 1956 1958 1959 all have the TY1 and TY2 on some coins. Speedy
