1957 50C, FBL MS(PCGS#86672)

February 2026 Showcase Auction - The James A. Stack, Sr. Collection Part II

Auctioneer

Stack's Bowers

Lot Number

25125

Grade

MS67FBL

Price

900

Lot Description

Simply put, this is one of the most visually striking examples of the issue that we have ever had the privilege of bringing to auction. Both sides exhibit rich Mint set toning that is particularly bold on the obverse, where copper-russet, steel-blue and golden-bronze colors dominate. The reverse, equally attractive, is a bit more reserved in a blend of pewter gray, antique gold and steel-blue. Luster is full, the strike razor sharp, and both sides are free of even the most trivial distractions. Writing in the 2023 edition of his <em>Guide Book of Franklin & Kennedy Half Dollars</em>, specialist Rick Tomaska has this say about the 1957 in MS-67 and MS-67 FBL:<p><em>All known examples are toned, most if not all from Mint sets. The toning ranges from average in eye appeal to breathtaking. The latter are extremely rare - only a few such pieces are known to exist. The prettier examples are typically found in deep shades of purple, blue, and golden amber.</em><p>With colors that are similar to those described by Tomaska, the offered coin is clearly one of the "prettier examples" obtainable within the uppermost reaches of the Condition Census for this issue.