The 1961 Franklin Half Dollar, composed of 90% silver, has a base value of approximately $10.23, reflecting its silver content. In Very Fine-20 condition, both the Philadelphia and Denver mint issues are valued around $11. Uncirculated examples can command higher prices, with values increasing based on condition and mint mark. For instance, a 1961 Franklin Half Dollar in MS-63 (Mint State) condition is valued at approximately $15. Additionally, the 1961 Proof issue, with a mintage of 3,028,244, is valued at around $20. A notable variety from 1961 is the doubled die reverse proof, which is valued at approximately $1,300. Factors such as condition, mint mark, and collector demand significantly influence the 1961 half dollar value.
1961 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1961 Franklin Half Dollar had a total mintage of right around 8.2 million coins from the Philadelphia Mint. This is a beautiful coin, especially in higher grades and Full Bell Line varieties. The 1961 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 1961 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1961 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.
1961 Franklin Half Dollar Value
The 1961 Franklin Half Dollar value ranges from around twenty dollars to upwards of $18,000 for the highest grades. The Franklin Half Dollar is a beautiful coin to add to any collection, and the 1961 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.
Type of coin: Half Dollar
Year: 1961 Franklin Half Dollar
Franklin Half Dollar Mint Mark: Philadelphia
Total mintage: 8,290,000
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