Franklin Half Dollars

Franklin Half Dollar For Sale

Franklin Half Dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, is 90% silver U.S. coin featuring Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. Collectors can find Franklin Half Dollar for sale through reputable dealers like Bullion Shark, offering key dates, varieties, and certified coins in various conditions, including uncirculated and proof options. Whether you're looking for individual coins or complete sets, Franklin Half Dollar coins are available for purchase!

The Franklin Half dollar is the predecessor to our current half dollar in the United States, the Kennedy Half Dollar. The Franklin Half Dollar coin was designed to commemorate and honor the memory of Ben Franklin, one of our founding fathers. The obverse depicts a right-facing portrait of Ben Franklin, which was designed by John Sinnock. The reverse shows the liberty bell, that was designed by Gilroy Roberts. This coin was minted from 1948-1963. Both proof and mint state versions were produced. The proof were made starting in 1950 and until 1963. Each Franklin Half Dollar was minted in 90% silver.

Franklin Half Dollar values vary from several dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Varieties such as full bell lines and cameo or deep cameo examples of Franklin Half Dollars are typically the ones that are worth the most. Only the highest quality franklin half dollars are worth big money.

Franklin Half Dollar Key Dates and Varieties

The Franklin Half Dollar series, minted from 1948 to 1963, is a favorite among collectors due to its relatively short mintage period and key dates that offer both rarity and variety. With only 35 different dates and mint marks across the series, it is considered one of the easier U.S. coin series to collect, though some issues stand out as more valuable and interesting due to low mintages and unique varieties.

Key Dates to Collect

• 1948: As the first year of issue, the 1948 Franklin Half Dollar is naturally of interest to collectors, representing the beginning of the series.

• 1949-S: The 1949-S is one of the lower mintage coins in the series, making it a key date for Franklin Half Dollar enthusiasts.

• 1953: The 1953 Franklin Half Dollar, particularly from the Philadelphia Mint, is notable for being more difficult to find in higher grades, adding to its desirability.

• 1955: This year produced one of the most famous and sought-after varieties, the 1955 Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar.

The 'Bugs Bunny' Variety

One of the most famous Franklin Half Dollar varieties is the 1955 Bugs Bunny. This variety gets its name from a die clash that occurred during production. The die clash caused the image of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse to appear with lines near his mouth, resembling the teeth of the cartoon character Bugs Bunny. This odd quirk makes the Bugs Bunny halves a popular target for collectors.

Die clashes occur when the obverse and reverse dies strike each other without a coin between them, causing some of the design from one side to be impressed onto the other die. In the case of the 1955 Bugs Bunny Franklin, this resulted in the comical appearance of Franklin with “buck teeth.”

Though the 1955 is the most famous, other Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollars exist across various years, but none are as recognized or valuable as the 1955 issue.

Short Mintage Period

The Franklin Half Dollar series had a relatively short run, only minted for 16 years. This short mintage time compared to other coin series makes it a popular choice for collectors who want a manageable yet rewarding series to complete. Due to its limited time in circulation and key dates with low mintages, the series retains high interest among numismatists.

The Franklin Half Dollar is a series to collect due to its combination of affordability, historical significance, and the presence of key dates and varieties. Notable examples like the 1949-S and the 1955 Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollaroffer collectors the opportunity to own unique pieces with intriguing minting anomalies like die clashes. Whether collecting by date, mint mark, or variety, the Franklin series remains a significant chapter in American numismatics.

Franklin Half Dollar Material Composition

The Franklin Half Dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, is renowned not only for its depiction of Benjamin Franklin and the Liberty Bell but also for its valuable metal content. This series of coins is composed of 90% silver and 10% copper, a standard alloy for U.S. coins before the switch to clad compositions in 1965.

Each Franklin Half Dollar had a .50c denomination and was composed of 90% silver. Collectors love the Franklin Half Dollar because of its low mintages in comparison to the Kennedy Half Dollar and its high silver content. Half Dollars the came after the Franklin Half Dollar rarely had silver in them. The only years that did were the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar which had 90% silver, the 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars that had 40% silver, and thereafter most half dollars no longer had any silver. The series was minted at a time when silver coins were transitioning out of circulation, adding an element of nostalgia and tangible value to each piece.

Franklin Half Dollar Value

While most Franklin Half Dollars are accessible to collectors at reasonable prices, especially in circulated conditions, the most expensive ones are typically those in high-grade uncirculated condition, with full bell lines (FBL) on the Liberty Bell on the reverse, indicating strong, detailed strike quality. Here are some of the most expensive Franklin Half Dollars and their approximate values based on recent auctions and sales data:

1. 1953-S Franklin Half Dollar, MS67+ FBL (Full Bell Lines): This coin, in a nearly perfect state with the coveted Full Bell Lines designation, can fetch upwards of $30,000 to $40,000, making it one of the most valuable Franklin Half Dollars due to its rarity in such a high grade.

2. 1949-S Franklin Half Dollar, MS67 FBL: The 1949-S in MS67 condition with Full Bell Lines is extremely rare and sought after by collectors. Prices for this coin can range from $20,000 to $25,000, depending on the auction and the coin's overall eye appeal.

3. 1952-S Franklin Half Dollar, MS67 FBL: Like other S-mint Franklin Half Dollars, the 1952-S in MS67 FBL condition is a rarity. It can command prices in the range of $15,000 to $20,000.

4. 1951 Franklin Half Dollar, MS66+ FBL: The 1951 Philadelphia issue is particularly rare with Full Bell Lines in high grades. A coin in MS66+ FBL condition can be valued at around $10,000 to $15,000.

5. 1950 Franklin Half Dollar, MS66+ FBL: The 1950 issue in MS66+ FBL condition is another key coin for collectors, with values typically ranging from $8,000 to $12,000.

6. 1955 Franklin Half Dollar, MS66+ FBL: Despite being from a later year, the 1955 Franklin Half Dollar in MS66+ FBL condition is quite rare and can sell for around $5,000 to $7,000.

7. 1956 Franklin Half Dollar, MS67 FBL: The 1956 issue, while more common in lower grades, becomes a rarity in MS67 FBL condition, with prices often reaching $4,000 to $6,000.

8. 1948 Franklin Half Dollar, MS66+ FBL: The first year of issue, the 1948 Franklin Half Dollar in MS66+ FBL condition, is highly prized, with values around $3,000 to $5,000.

Historical Significance and Design

The Franklin Half Dollar was first made in 1948 and continued interrupted until 1963. The coin was made to commemorate Ben Franklin, one of our most beloved founders. Ben Franklin played a huge role making our great country what it is today. His devotion to America really was as patriotic as they come. He was admired by many people, including Nellie Tayloe Ross. Nellie was governor of Wyoming and was the first woman to hold such a government position. Furthermore, Ross wanted to see Franklin’s face on a coin, and so she made sure he was featured on a Half Dollar, the Franklin Half Dollar.

The Franklin Half Dollar was introduced to honor Benjamin Franklin, who was known for his pivotal role in the American Enlightenment and the Revolutionary War. The choice to depict Franklin on a coin was significant, as it marked one of the few times a non-presidential figure was chosen for this honor, underscoring his impact on American history and values. The obverse of the coin features Franklin’s side profile, while the reverse design prominently displays the Liberty Bell, cracked yet enduring, alongside a diminutive eagle – a nod to Franklin’s own skepticism about the eagle as a national symbol and his preference for the turkey.

In 1947, the chief engraver John Sinnock was assigned the duty of designing the coin, due to his untimely death he could not complete his design. Thereafter, a engraver named Gilroy Roberts completed the design. Then on April 19th, 1948 the Franklin Half Dollar was released! The Franklin Half Dollar design consists of a detailed side portrait of our founding father which ends at the shoulder, the word “Liberty” standing tall at the top of the coin, and the phrase “ In God we trust” surrounding Franklin at the bottom of the coin. On the reverse of the Franklin Half Dollar shows the shining Liberty Bell with enough detail to show the famous crack of the bell. Alongside the bell is a bald eagle. Around the bell lies multiple phrases including “United States Of America, E Pluribus Unum and Half Dollar”. The coin's series was minted from 1948 - 1963 and was produced at the Philadelphia, Denver and, San Francisco.

Franklin Half Dollar Collectibility

For collectors, the Franklin Half Dollar is a series of great interest due to its historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and the variety within the series, including different mint marks and variations in condition. While most Franklin Half Dollars carry a value above their face value, especially in higher grades, certain years and mint marks are particularly sought after. The series also includes proof issues, which are prized for their sharp details and mirror-like finish. Collectors often seek to complete the entire series, including coins from the Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco Mints.

Franklin Half Dollar Legacy

The Franklin Half Dollar series was ultimately replaced by the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964, following President John F. Kennedy's assassination, which led to a public demand for a coin commemorating the fallen president. Despite its relatively short run, the Franklin Half Dollar remains a beloved series among collectors and historians alike, offering a window into mid-20th-century America and the enduring legacy of one of its most influential figures.

Where to Buy Franklin Half Dollars Online

You can find Franklin half dollars either online or on the phone at Bullion Shark. We carry Franklin Half Dollar Rolls in mint state and proof condition, PCGS certified and NGC certified Franklin Half Dollars, and individual ungraded ones.

Buying Franklin Half Dollars at Bullion Shark

Purchasing Franklin Half Dollars at Bullion Shark offers collectors a seamless and reliable experience. As a reputable dealer in precious metals and rare coins, Bullion Shark has earned over 3,000 of positive reviews from customers, who appreciate the transparency, quality, and customer service provided throughout the buying process.

The Precious Metals Buying Experience

When buying Franklin Half Dollars from Bullion Shark, collectors can expect a streamlined and professional shopping experience. Whether you’re looking for specific key dates, high-grade coins, or a complete set, Bullion Shark provides a detailed description of each item, including its grade, rarity, and current market value. This level of transparency helps customers make informed decisions about their purchases, ensuring they are fully aware of the coin’s condition and worth.

Customer Reviews and Valuable Feedback

Customers frequently leave positive reviews about their purchases, highlighting the exceptional quality of the Franklin Half Dollars they receive. Many note that Bullion Shark ensures the coins arrive in pristine condition, whether in individual packaging or protective holders, which adds an extra layer of assurance for collectors. The company’s dedication to quality control and customer satisfaction is evident in the feedback shared by buyers, with many praising the prompt shipping and secure packaging.

Transparency and Trust

Bullion Shark is known for its transparency in the buying process, with detailed listings and honest descriptions of the coins for sale. Customers appreciate the straightforward approach, as they can trust the information provided on the Franklin Half Dollars they are purchasing. This trust factor is critical in the precious metals and numismatic industry, where the authenticity and condition of coins greatly impact their value.

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