High Grade Proof 1958 Franklin to Be Offered in June
The Proof 1958 Franklin half dollar is a modern rarity that presents
a severe challenge to specialists seeking the highest grade levels. With only
875,652 Proof half dollars struck, the 1958 is the lowest mintage issue from
the second half of the series, which would eventually reach a height of 3.21
million coins struck in 1962. While common in low grades, it is a significant
condition rarity that faced issues with both production quality and
preservation. Writing in 2011, series specialist Rick Tomaska points out that
“probably only 200 to 300 examples survive in deep or ultra cameo. Most of
these grade between Proof-65 and Proof-67” and “Few…grade as high as Proof-68
DC/UC.” Modern certified populations confirm this assertion, with most examples
listed below Proof-67 Ultra Cameo and just a few dozen known at the Proof-68 UCAM
level.
We are thrilled to offer an exceptional Proof-69 Ultra Cameo
(NGC) 1958 half dollar in lot
569 of our June 2020 Santa Ana Auction. It is virtually perfect and ranks
as one of the very finest known survivors. It is platinum-white and entirely
free of friction. The dense, satiny luster across the devices contrasts
dramatically with the heavily mirrored fields.
At Proof-69 Ultra Cameo, it is one of just five known at
that level across both services, all of which are certified by NGC. None have
been certified finer, making this a find for collectors that demand only the
best. It represents the pinnacle of execution and preservation for the issue
and will see considerable interest from advanced specialists.
This virtually flawless Proof 1958 half dollar will be
offered in lot
569 of our June 2020 Santa Ana Auction, featured alongside Vermont coppers from the Q.
David Bowers Collection, the Dazzling Rarities Collection, the Francesca
Collection of US Gold Coins, and many other rarities. The sale is currently
available for bidding and viewing on our website www.StacksBowers.com or you may contact
us to secure a copy of the printed catalog. Also, download our mobile app to
view and participate in our auctions via your Android or Apple device.
