$1 FV Franklin Silver Half Dollars

The Franklin Silver Half Dollar, minted from 1948 to 1963, is a popular collectible due to its historical significance and silver content. Designed by John R. Sinnock, the coin features Benjamin Franklin, one of America's Founding Fathers, and the Liberty Bell, symbolizing American independence.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features a portrait of Benjamin Franklin facing right, with the word 'LIBERTY' around the top and the phrase 'IN GOD WE TRUST' below. The year of minting is displayed at the bottom.
• Reverse (back): Depicts the Liberty Bell with a small eagle to the right, mandated by law. The inscriptions 'UNITED STATES OF AMERICA' and 'HALF DOLLAR' surround the image.
• Weight: 12.5 grams
• Silver Content: 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver
• Fineness: 90% silver (0.900 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The Franklin Half Dollar was produced at three U.S. Mints, with the mint mark located above the Liberty Bell on the reverse:

• Philadelphia (no mint mark): The Philadelphia Mint produced the largest number of Franklin Half Dollars.
• Denver ('D'): Coins from the Denver Mint are generally more common, but specific years can be more valuable.
• San Francisco ('S'): The San Francisco Mint also produced these coins, with some years being more collectible due to lower mintages.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Most Franklin Half Dollars are relatively common, particularly those minted in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These coins are often sold for their silver content, as their numismatic value is often close to their melt value.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Some dates and mint marks are more sought after by collectors. The 1949-S and 1955 are notable for their lower mintages. Additionally, the 1953-S and 1954-S are considered key dates among Franklin Half Dollars due to their scarcity in higher grades.

The 1951-S and 1952-S can be valuable in uncirculated condition, as they are difficult to find with strong strikes and full bell lines, which are desirable characteristics for collectors.

Various Grades and Values

The value of Franklin Silver Half Dollars depends on their condition (grade) and rarity. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins (late 1950s and early 1960s):

• Good (G): $10-15
• Fine (F): $12-18
• Extremely Fine (XF): $15-25
• About Uncirculated (AU): $20-35
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $30-50

Rare mint marks and key dates can command significantly higher prices, especially in higher grades with full bell lines.

The Franklin Silver Half Dollar is a cherished piece of American numismatic history, representing a blend of historical significance and intrinsic value. While many are accessible to collectors due to their abundance, certain years and mint mark combinations, especially those with full bell lines, can fetch premiums. As with most collectible coins, condition and rarity play crucial roles in determining their market value.

$1 FV Franklin Silver Half Dollars Auctions