Beautifully Toned 1952-D Half Dollar

Unsurpassed PCGS/CAC MS-67 FBL

1952-D Franklin Half Dollar. MS-67 FBL (PCGS).

This outstanding Superb Gem stands head and shoulders above the vast majority of 1952-D half dollars extant. Both the technical quality and eye appeal are superior for the issue. What sets this coin apart in the technical category is the pristine surface preservation, which is fully deserving of the MS-67 grade. Most Denver Mint half dollars of this type are heavily abraded and in lower grades through MS-64; the 1952-D is no exception. The toning is also exceptional for the issue. Writing in the third edition (2018) of the reference A Guide Book of Franklin and Kennedy Half Dollars, Rick Tomaska sums up this situation nicely: "As is typical of the early Denver Mint coins, Mint set pieces are typically quite unattractive -- among the ugliest in the series. Dull gray, tan, brown, and similar shades dominate. Color coins are extremely rare. Most coins also grade quite low -- MS-63 and below." A noteworthy exception to the rule for a toned 1952-D half dollar, this is clearly one of the "extremely rare" "color coins" of which Tomaska writes. The obverse is exceptionally vivid and layered in iridescent pinkish-apricot, pale gold and sea green. The reverse is more reserved, yet still visually appealing, with soft champagne-pink peripheral highlights that give way to antique silver gray toward the center. Both sides are intensely lustrous with a smooth, frosty texture that is well deserving of the Superb Gem grade. Fully struck, supremely attractive and among the most appealing examples of the issue, this Condition Census coin belongs in the finest Franklin half dollar set.

PCGS# 86662. NGC ID: 24T4.

PCGS Population: 7; 0 finer. CAC Population: 3; 0.