When the phrase "Half Dollar" comes to mind, most people tend to think of, the half which is currently being issued, the Kennedy Half. Very few non-numismatists possess knowledge of or recall of the Kennedy Half's predecessor, the Franklin Half. I, however, believe the Franklin Half possesses the ultimate beauty, supreme significance, and even US patriotism.
In case you don't recall, the Franklin Half displays the profile of Statesman Benjamin Franklin on the obverse side. Located on the reverse side, you can see the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom, independence, and America, which is extremely familiar to me. This particular Half Dollar was issued from 1948-1960 and was abruptly stopped when legislature was passed to commemorate the Life of President Kennedy. Had Kennedy not been shot, it is most likely that the Franklin Half would have lasted longer. If this had happened, it is extremely possible that the Franklin Half would be in circulation today. However, if everyone could dip into their pockets and pull out a couple or Franklin Halves I am not sure that it would be as appreciated for its exquisite beauty, the magic would be just gone.
Most novices would say that the Morgan is the most beautiful coin just because that is what they have read. I have to differ, when you think back, not only does the beauty of the Franklin Half surpass the Morgan, but the Franklin Half has historical significance.
Benjamin Franklin is not just some random character pictured on the US's money. Franklin was the founder of our Public Libraries and of our Fire Departments, He was also greatly involved in the creation of the US Constitution.
My last point is that Franklin is a representative of elegance, power, and desirability. Just think over to the One-Hundred Dollar Bill, it is desired, and people usually associate $100 with Franklin and Franklin in turn with the above characteristics. All of the above qualities of beauty, prestige, rarity, significance and just plain attractiveness all bring me to conclude that the Franklin Half is my favorite coin.