Reply to Thread

Message:: [QUOTE="CoinOKC, post: 807489, member: 2146"]In Robert R. Van Ryzin's book Fascinating Facts, Mysteries & Myths About U.S. Coins, he asks "Does a 1964-dated Franklin half dollar exist?"  Then adds, "The design was changed in that year in honor of the nation's fallen leader, John F. Kennedy.  Despite denials by the Mint and the coin's engraver, John Sinnock, rumors persist that at least one specimen of the Franklin design escaped the Mint bearing the 1964 date". I've never heard of a "1964 Franklin" or even the possibility of the existence of one.  Now, I wouldn't doubt that one or more exist due to the fact that JFK's assassination occurred so late in 1963. Dies could have already been prepared for a 1964 Franklin and some may have even been struck before the law was passed creating the JFK Half Dollar. Now, many people are aware that a 1964 Peace Dollar existed.  Many of these were struck before they were subsequently (supposedly) destroyed.  A 1964 Peace Dollar is a rarity indeed.  But, a 1964 Franklin would be even rarer as the government has not acknowledged that any were even struck. Of course, if a 1964 Franklin DOES exist, I'm sure it would be considered illegal to own.  But, if any 1964 Franklins DO exist, I would think its rarity would be equal to or even rarer than the 1913 Liberty Nickel. I just found it curious that I had never heard of a 1964 Franklin being struck even though the possibility is not that extreme.[/QUOTE]