1952 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar had a higher mintage of over 21 million coins from the Philadelphia Mint. This is a beautiful coin, especially in higher grades and Full Bell Line varieties. The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar features designs and inspiration by John. R. Sinnock and John Frederick Lewis and shows Benjamin Franklin’s profile on the obverse of the coin, and the cracked Liberty Bell on the reverse.
History of the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar is a part of the affordable and accessible Franklin Half Dollar series. The series was abruptly cut short when John F. Kennedy was assassinated, and is a great coin that represents a unique time in American history. It is believed that the Full Bell Line versions have a perfect strike, but the coin is readily available in most grades, circulated and uncirculated, depending on what you are looking for in your Ben Franklin Half Dollar series collection.
1952 Franklin Half Dollar Value
The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value ranges from below a hundred dollars to upwards of $40,000. Full Bell Line versions of the 1952 Ben Franklin Half Dollar command a much higher price depending on how they are graded. The Franklin Half Dollar is a beautiful coin to add to any collection, and the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar is no different. When choosing your coin, it’s important to look for a well-struck, lustrous coin. The higher grade the higher the cost, but also the nicer the coin will look in most cases.
The most expensive 1952 Franklin Half Dollar sold was from the San Francisco Mint (S Mint Mark), which reached a price of $25,850. This coin was likely graded in a very high state, such as MS (Mint State) quality, to fetch such a high price. Franklin Half Dollars from this era and of such high quality are highly prized by collectors for their rarity, condition, and historical significance.
Type of coin: Half Dollar
Year: 1952 Franklin Half Dollar
Franklin Half Dollar Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 21,192,093
Metal content: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Face value: 50 cents
Weight: 12.50 grams
Edge: Reeded
Designer: John R. Sinnock and John Frederick Lewis
Diameter: 30.00 millimeters
1952 Half Dollar Value
The value of a 1952 half dollar, specifically the Franklin Half Dollar minted from 1948 to 1963, can vary significantly based on several factors including its mint mark, condition (grade), and any potential errors or unique features. Here's a general overview of the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value based on condition and mint marks:
1952 (Philadelphia, no mint mark)
- Circulated Condition: $9 - $12
- Uncirculated Condition: $20 - $50+
- With Full Bell Lines (FBL) in Uncirculated Condition: $50 - $200+
1952-D (Denver)
- Circulated Condition: $9 - $12
- Uncirculated Condition: $20 - $50+
- With Full Bell Lines (FBL) in Uncirculated Condition: $75 - $300+
1952-S (San Francisco)
- Circulated Condition: $9 - $12
- Uncirculated Condition: $20 - $50+
- With Full Bell Lines (FBL) in Uncirculated Condition: $100 - $400+
Key Points:
- Condition Matters: The value increases significantly for coins in uncirculated condition, especially those graded MS-60 and above.
- Full Bell Lines (FBL): Franklin Half Dollars with sharp, clear lines on the Liberty Bell (on the reverse) are considered to have Full Bell Lines and are more valuable, especially in higher grades.
- Mint Marks: The mint mark can be found on the reverse of the coin, just above the Liberty Bell. Coins minted in San Francisco (S) or Denver (D) can be more valuable than those from Philadelphia (no mint mark), particularly in higher grades or with FBL.
- Market Variability: The values can fluctuate based on the current market demand, the price of silver, and the coin's appeal to collectors.
FAQ
1. What is the average 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value?
The average 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value ranges from $9 to $12 for coins in circulated condition. For uncirculated coins, the value can start from $20 and go up significantly based on the coin's grade and mint mark.
2. How does the mint mark affect the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value?
The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar was minted in Philadelphia (no mint mark), Denver (D), and San Francisco (S). The Denver and San Francisco minted coins are generally more valuable, with the "S" mint mark versions often commanding a higher premium. The 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value can vary significantly based on the mint mark, especially in higher grades.
3. What is the value of a 1952 Franklin Half Dollar in uncirculated condition?
The value of a 1952 Franklin Half Dollar in uncirculated condition can range significantly, starting from about $20 for lower uncirculated grades to several hundred dollars for coins in MS-65 or higher grades. The specific mint mark and the coin's eye appeal can also influence its value.
4. Can errors increase the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value?
Yes, errors can significantly increase the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value. Varieties such as doubled dies, repunched mint marks, or other minting anomalies are sought after by collectors and can command a premium over standard coins.
5. What is the highest recorded 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value at auction?
The highest recorded 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value at auction can exceed several thousand dollars for coins in top condition (MS-66 or higher) with full bell lines (FBL) on the Liberty Bell's design. Rare errors or particularly stunning eye appeal can also enhance the auction value.
6. How can I find out the exact 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value?
To determine the exact 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value, it's recommended to consult with a professional coin grading service such as PCGS or NGC. They can grade your coin accurately, which is crucial for determining its market value, especially for uncirculated or error coins.
7. What factors influence the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value the most?
The factors that influence the 1952 Franklin Half Dollar value the most include the coin's condition (grade), mint mark, and the presence of full bell lines (FBL) on the reverse. Errors and unique variations can also significantly impact its value.