The Franklin Half Dollar is a fifty-cent piece that was struck by the United States Mint from 1948 to 1963. The coin features Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse, with a small eagle to the right of the bell to satisfy legal requirements. The series was designed by John R. Sinnock, who was the Chief Engraver at the U.S. Mint. The Franklin Half Dollar is noteworthy for being the first circulated U.S. coin to feature a real person other than a president on the obverse.

### Design
- **Obverse:** The obverse of the Franklin Half Dollar showcases a profile of Benjamin Franklin facing right, with the inscription "IN GOD WE TRUST" below his chin, and "LIBERTY" encircling the top edge of the coin. The year of minting appears to the right of Franklin’s shoulder.
- **Reverse:** The reverse features the Liberty Bell with a crack running through the middle, and a small eagle to the left to comply with legal statutes. It bears the inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "HALF DOLLAR," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM."

### Proof Coins
Proof Franklin Half Dollars were struck each year of the series, from 1948 until 1963. These coins were minted at the Philadelphia Mint, evidenced by the absence of a mint mark.

#### Characteristics of Proof Coins:
- Proof coins are specially made with collectors in mind, struck with polished dies and specially treated blanks to create a mirror-like finish on the fields and a frosted appearance on the raised designs and inscriptions.
- The Franklin Proof Half Dollars are particularly sought after by collectors for their beauty and for the depth and clarity of their designs.
- Proof coins were produced in much lower quantities than their circulation counterparts, making them rarer and often more valuable.

### Collectibility and Value
- Collectors highly value Franklin Proof Half Dollars, especially those in pristine condition or with cameo contrasts between the frosted designs and mirrored fields. The condition, indicated by the grade, significantly affects the value.
- Some of the most valuable Franklin Proof Half Dollars are the early years, particularly the 1950 proof, which is known for its deep cameo finish. However, cameo and deep cameo finishes are rare for Franklin Proofs, especially in the early years of the series.
- The 1950, 1951, and 1952 proof half dollars are considered difficult to find with deep cameos, making high-grade examples of these years particularly valuable.
- The overall rarity and market demand for specific coins can significantly affect prices, with top grades fetching premium values.

The Franklin Proof Half Dollar is a cherished series among collectors, appreciated not only for its aesthetic and historical significance but also for representing one of the pioneering figures in American history. Each coin serves as a tribute to Benjamin Franklin’s enduring legacy.