I just received a 1960 Franklin half from a monthly coin program I belong to. It appears to me to be a proof coin, but how do I tell for sure? I have many modern proof sets but they have the frosted high points with mirror-like fields. I am pretty sure earlier proof coins did not have this feature. This coin has very mirror-like fields. Is it a proof or a high grade MS coin? I have attached photos. They may not reveal enough so I have included a description. The coin has very mirror-like fields as if from a polished proof die however some of the details on the reverse such as bell lines and inscription on the bell are soft and lacking in detail. There are no bag marks anywhere on the coin which would grade it in the 69 - 70 range which is another reason I think it is a proof, as even an MS 67 would be worth a couple thousand dollars. The portrait and more so the bell appear to have a slightly duller finish. The Lettering and the small eagle on the reverse are very clewar and sharp Is there a definitive way to distinguish a proof version from a mint-state example?
It's 'brilliant' proof........Most Franklin's appear to be so. Forget 'frosty', and look for him 'round Christmas time.............
I think after '56 the proof reverse would be type II where the eagle was redesigned for greater detail. Biggest distinguishing feature would be the definition of the eagle's wings. I would count the tips on the eagle's right wing. Proofs would have 3 tips, circulation strikes would have 4. Just as a side note, be careful with this rule for '58 and '59. The proof dies were used on circulation strikes so that makes the water a little merky when trying to distinguish but filed cameo helps as well. From your pictures, I would guess you have a proof.
