Description
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Detailed analysis for each date & mintmark across the two series — Franklin (1948-1963) and Kennedy (1964-present).
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Retail pricing in multiple grades, so you can see how value changes with condition.
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Step-by-step grading guidance, including “Full Bell Lines” for Franklin halves (a trait collectors watch for to judge strike quality).
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Extensive coverage of Proof issues, especially proof designations like Cameo and Deep Cameo.
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Collectible die varieties and error / misstrike examples are included.
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Special research/new content in the 4th edition: 1964 Specimen Kennedy half dollars, the NGC Rick Tomaska Signature Series designation, updated coin photography, etc.
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Hundreds of full-color photographs to help with visual identification of variety, condition, strike, etc.
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Appendices with additional resources: auction records, error coins, “Exceptional Cameo Contrast” proofs, and a chapter on Proof Liberty Walking half dollars (which influenced later proof series).
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Pages | 336 pages |
| Size | 6 × 9 inches |
| ISBN / SKU | ISBN-10 / SKU: 0794850502 |
| Format | Full-color; softcover (trade paperback) |
| Publication Date | September 5, 2023 |
Why It’s Valuable to Collectors
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Excellent for both beginners and advanced collectors: it helps you know what to look for (strike quality, proof designations, error coins, etc.).
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The “Full Bell Lines” system for grading Franklin halves is a specially important feature; many collectors consider that a key quality metric.
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Updated/new material (especially on the 1964 specimen Kennedy, new proof photography, etc.) means that this edition includes recent developments, not just historic info.
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Visual aids/photos help a lot with comparing coins you might have vs reference photos, especially when judging subtle proof vs business strike differences, cameo contrast, etc.
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Helps with setting realistic market expectations (via auction records, pricing by grade) which is useful for buying, selling, or certifying coins.
