1956 Franklin Proof Type 1 and type 2

slothman2000

I was wandering if anyone knows the distinction between these two type coins. Is it quite obvious or do you need a microscope to find the distinction? Searched the internet and all I came up with is that the difference is on the reverse...any help would be appreciated...Joe

sinin1

you can probably see it without a loupe


difference is in the eagles feathers on wings on reverse - to the right of the bell

type 1 is indistinct and mushy (like earlier year proofs)

type 2 is very defined (like later year proofs)

CarlWohlforth

The feathers in the small eagle to the right of the Bell have very little to no detail on the type 1. The T2 has all feathers and details. Here is a photo of a T1:

LucyBop

here is a type 1:

Notice the lack of detail on the Eagles wings, the three Breast feathers. a pointy beak....... All Proof Franklins from 1950 - 55 (with some in the early stages of 56) will have this Eagle. Its easy to use a older Franklin and say compare the Eagle to a Eagle from 1958.



here is a type 2:

Notice the very sharp detail of the type 2, the wing feathers and the breast feathers are very sharp, well defined....
These differences are very easy to spot once you know what to look for...

Gilbert

Maybe this explanation can help you in addition to those already mentioned - the type one eagle is the same as the eagle on business strikes; the type two was first used on '56 proofs and thereafter, so -

to distinguish, check the proof eagle against a business strike, If it is the same, it's a T1.


You can also count the feathers on the eagle's right wing. How many clearly do not touch the talons/perch? four for T1, three for T2.

slothman2000

You people are AWESOME...this site is the greatest thing since sliced bread...Thanks

CarlWohlforth

That was an excellent description Lucy! You have inspired me to add a little page about some modern varieties on my website. The comparison close up photos are worth a thousands words!

Newmismatist

Thanks for the great info showing the differences between the Ty1 & the Ty2. Which is the scarcer variety (ie which one is worth more)?
Or are they both worth the same (assuming same grade & same TP grading service)?

doop

Pssst, notice ebay #2211672714

FC57Coins

of all the 56 proofs type I's comprise only about 5% making them the more expensive and illusive variety