1956 Type 2 Proof

Following the mid-year hub revision, the majority of the 669,384 Franklin Half Dollar proofs struck in 1956 came from the new Type 2 reverse, and the same hub continued in use without further modification through the end of the series in 1963. Type 2 examples show three tail feathers on the small eagle and a sharper, more clearly defined eagle breast, the result of strengthened design relief carried by the new master die. Output of Type 2 coins is estimated to account for roughly 90 percent or more of the annual proof figure, making this variety the readily available form of the 1956 Proof.

The 1956 issue also marks a notable transition in proof die preparation, with Cameo and Deep Cameo examples appearing in meaningfully higher numbers than for any prior year of the program. The Mint had begun refining the surface treatment of proof dies to produce more consistent device frost, and PCGS and NGC certified populations for the 1956 Type 2 Proof show a much healthier Cameo and Deep Cameo presence than the 1950 through 1955 issues. Authentication of the Type 2 designation rests on the three-feather tail count and the sharper breast contour, both readily visible without magnification on a well-preserved coin. Full Bell Lines remains a circulation-strike designation and does not apply to proof Franklin halves regardless of hub type.

Gem and superb gem examples in PR67 and PR68 are widely available, and PR69 Deep Cameo specimens exist in enough numbers to support an active market at firm but accessible premiums. Collectors assembling a complete Franklin proof set typically pair this Type 2 with a Type 1 to document the hub change within the same calendar year. For the full story of the 1956 reverse transition and the program that carried it forward, see the Franklin Half Dollar series history.