1958-D Repunched Mintmark RPM-001

Description

Eastward repunching distinguishes this 1958-D Franklin Half Dollar RPM-001, where the final D was shifted to the right of the initial impression — the opposite direction from the westward RPMs seen on 1949-D, 1952-D RPM-001, and 1954-D RPM-001. The initial D's remnants appear displaced to the west (left) of the final position, where the first punch's straight vertical stroke and curves create extra contour along the definitive D's left side. Eastward correction indicates the die maker's first D punch landed too far to the left, requiring a rightward shift — a less common correction pattern among Denver Franklin Half Dollar RPMs, where westward and southward directions predominate. The 1958-D was struck during the final years of the Franklin Half Dollar series, which would end in 1963 when Kennedy's assassination prompted an immediate design change. With only five full production years remaining, late-date Franklin Half Dollar RPMs document the continuation of hand-punched mintmark practices through the series' final era. Struck in 90% silver at 30.6mm, Sinnock's designs had been in production for a decade. Examine the D mintmark for the westward-displaced first impression — the initial punch's traces along the left edge of the final D that confirm this less common eastward repunching direction.

External References