1951-S Repunched Mintmark RPM-001

Description

Holding the primary FS-501 designation, RPM-001 of the 1951-S Franklin Half Dollar is the most important repunched mintmark for this date and mint. The S over S southwest pattern shows the original S punch positioned to the southwest of its final placement, creating overlapping impressions where the initial mintmark remains visible beneath the corrected position. The variety also carries the RDV-001a reverse die variety designation. Repunched mintmarks occurred because each working die received its mintmark through individual hand-punching, and when the placement was unsatisfactory, the engraver struck the punch again without fully obliterating the first impression. The FS-501 designation in the Cherry Picker's Guide confirms this as the premier mintmark variety for 1951-S Franklin Halves, making it a targeted find for variety collectors. The Franklin Half Dollar series ran from 1948 through 1963, with San Francisco striking the S-mint issues. Struck in 90% silver and 10% copper at 12.50 grams, this Franklin Half Dollar preserves a southwest-displaced S mintmark beneath the corrected position, documenting the hand-punching process of mid-century die preparation.

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