1961 Proof Franklin Half Dollar: Doubled Die Reverse (Lots of photos and comparisons)
Please read description. A very Rare and Unique coin. Minimum MS67 Condition.
- Listing Type:
- This item is For Sale - Buy It Now
- Quantity:
- 1 available for sale
- Buy It Now For:
- $1100.00
- Shipping:
- $10.60 USPS Priority Mail Padded Rate Envelope (2 to 3 business days) - (more details)
- Returns:
- Returns are not Accepted - (more details)
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Item Description
Definitely a coin for grading consideration. PCGS has a coin of this grade (MS67) valued at $5,750. It could grade higher and be worth significantly more. https://www.pcgs.com/coinfacts/coin/1961-50c-doubled-die-reverse/6689
Photos Narrative: I have included raw and microscope photos for this coin. Additional Die Lines are prominenent in the perimeter lettering. I have also included a photo of a Normal Proof Strike of the "E Pluribus Unum" of a 1958 Franklin Proof Half Dollar. This coin presented for sale, the "L" in Pluribus is clearly deformed from the doubled strike with the P retaining much of the coins material on the second strike.
A 1961 proof Franklin half dollar, like all proof coins, undergoes a meticulous and specialized minting process that involves multiple strikes to ensure sharpness, clarity, and detail. Here’s a breakdown of how the coin is struck, what imperfections are typical, and what imperfections, specifically the Doubled Die Reverse (DDR), would be considered numismatic rarities:
1. Striking Process of a Proof Franklin Half Dollar (1961):
- Multiple Strikes: Proof coins, such as the 1961 Franklin half dollar, are struck more than once—typically twice—to ensure that the details of the design are crisp and fully defined. These coins are struck with greater pressure compared to regular circulation strikes, ensuring the fields (background) are smooth, and the details in the design elements are well-defined.
- Highly Polished Planchets and Dies: The planchets (blanks) and dies used in proof coins are polished to give the coin a mirror-like finish in the fields.
2. Reasonable Imperfections in Proof Coins:
Even with the care taken in minting proof coins, there are some imperfections that collectors might expect:
- Minor Hairlines: Due to handling and the polishing process, some minor hairlines or light scratches on the mirror-like surfaces can occur. These are especially common if the coin was mishandled after leaving the Mint or not properly stored in a protective holder.
- Small Spots: Occasionally, small toning spots or planchet flaws can be found on the surfaces, although they are typically very minimal.
3. Doubled Die Reverse (DDR) as a Numismatic Rarity:
A Doubled Die Reverse occurs when the die used to strike the coin has been improperly made, causing a doubling of the design elements. This is considered a mint error and, if prominent, is a valuable and rare numismatic variety. For the 1961 proof Franklin half dollar:
- What Causes Doubled Die: A DDR happens when the hub (the piece used to impress the design on the die) impresses the die multiple times, but in slightly different positions. The result is a doubling of certain elements on the coin, such as letters, numbers, or design details.
- Numismatic Value of DDR: A clear, strong Doubled Die Reverse on a proof Franklin half dollar is highly collectible. The key to its value lies in the visibility and clarity of the doubling. A well-documented DDR variety would typically show doubling on specific parts of the reverse design, such as the lettering (like "HALF DOLLAR" or "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA"), the eagle, or other prominent design elements.
- Notable Characteristics of DDR: The doubling on these coins will be most evident when observed under magnification, but strong examples can sometimes be seen with the naked eye. For a rare DDR, you'd expect noticeable doubling that is distinct and not just slight mechanical doubling (which is more common and less valuable).
Conclusion:
A 1961 proof Franklin half dollar, struck multiple times, generally has exceptional detail, but minor imperfections like hairlines and small spots can be expected. However, a Doubled Die Reverse is a rare and valuable mint error, especially if the doubling is clear and significant. Collectors prize these errors for their uniqueness, and they tend to command higher premiums, especially if the doubling is in prominent and visible areas on the reverse of the coin.
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I frequently travel for my day job, but I am committed to getting your product to you as quickly as possible. If an order is placed while I’m on the road, I’ll reach out to keep you informed about the expected shipping timeline. To make up for any potential delay, I’ll include a little something extra in your shipment as a token of appreciation for your patience and understanding.
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| Shipping / Handling Cost | Cost For Each Additional Item | Service |
|---|---|---|
| $10.60 | $0.00 | USPS Priority Mail Padded Rate Envelope (2 to 3 business days) |
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