The Franklin Mint · Exton, PA United States

Not to be confused with the US Mint, The Franklin Mint was founded in 1964 by Joseph Segal (who later went on to found the QVC shopping network) and was initially known for making coins. Many of its wares -- die-cast cars and airplanes, precision modeling, and its Harley-Davidson-branded items -- are produced under licensing agreements. It also offers hand-painted collectibles, such as commemorative dolls (many made in the likeness of living and dead celebrities), as well as jewelry and seasonal giftware. Its goods are distributed via wholesale and the Internet. The Franklin Mint was bought in 1985 by Stewart and Lynda Resnick and sold in late 2006 to a group led by executives from The Morgan Mint. To read the full description, subscribe now.