1963 End Of An Era Coin And Currency Set

In 1963, the U.S. Mint struck the last-ever Franklin Half Dollar. At the same time, the U.S. Treasury produced the last-ever $2 United States Note. It was the end of an era and now, both of these historic last issues are brought together in a superb set.

The Franklin Half Dollar honors Benjamin Franklin, the legendary colonial patriot, inventor, and statesman. Franklin was the first historical person other than a President to appear on a circulating U.S. coin. The reverse of the coin shows the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. According to tradition, the Liberty Bell was rung to announce the Declaration of Independence to the people of Philadelphia on July 4, 1776. The 1963 Franklin Half Dollar was struck in 90% silver, a level of precious metal not seen in generations. The Franklin series came to an unexpected end in 1963; it was replaced in 1964 with the Kennedy coin honoring John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated in late 1963.

The United States Note was one of several different types of currency circulating in the early 1960s. The Treasury was attempting to simplify currency, and within a few years only the Federal Reserve Notes remained. United States Notes are very distinctive, because they were issued with a red Treasury seal and red serial numbers. The note features a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the front and Jefferson's home, Monticello, on the back. The last $2 United States Notes were withdrawn by the government and destroyed in the 1960s, leaving few for collectors and historians.

Both the last 1963 Franklin Half Dollar and last 1963 $2 United States Note have been out of issue for at least 50 years. The set is presented in a custom wallet with a story card that explains the historical background and importance of the items.