The value of a 1961 50-cent coin, also known as a Franklin Half Dollar, can vary significantly based on its condition and whether it’s a standard issue or a Proof strike.
Here’s a summary of estimated values as of August 2025:
- Circulated Condition:
– Good, Fine, Very Fine, Extremely Fine (circulated): Between $13 and $17.25.
- Uncirculated Condition (MS – Mint State):
– Standard Mint State (MS): Values start around $21.00 and can reach up to $2,400 or more depending on the specific grading (e.g., MS62, MS64, MS65, MS66). For instance, an MS66 coin may be valued at $625.
– Full Bell Lines (FBL) Designation: Coins with this designation are highly sought after and can command much higher prices, starting around $27.00 and reaching up to $34,500 or more, depending on the grading.
– “Bugs Bunny” Die Clash (FS-401): This specific variety in Mint State condition ranges from $25.00 to $2,600 or more, with Full Bell Line (FBL) versions reaching even higher values ($37.00 – $38,000).
– Doubled Die Reverse (FS-501): The [Greysheet catalog] does not list a value range for this variety in Mint State (MS) condition.
- Proof Strikes (PR):
– Standard Proof (PR): Values range from $18.00 to $260.
– Cameo (CAM) and Deep Cameo (DCAM) Designation: These Proof strikes are more valuable. CAM coins are valued between $23.00 and $2,100, while DCAM coins can fetch between $41.00 and $21,500.
– Doubled Die Reverse Proof (FS-801, FS-802, FS-803): These are particularly scarce and can be quite valuable. Values for standard Doubled Die Reverse Proofs range from $575 to $17,500. A Doubled Die Reverse Proof with a Cameo designation can be worth between $4,000 and $40,500, while a DCAM version can be valued between $36,000 and $57,500.
Important Notes:
- These values are estimates and can fluctuate based on market conditions, the specific grade of the coin, and buyer demand.
- The melt value of a 1961 Franklin Half Dollar, due to its 90% silver content, was approximately $13.74 as of August 14, 2025.
- Reputable resources like Greysheet and NGC provide detailed pricing information and market trends for these coins.
What makes a 1961 half dollar rare?
The 1961 Doubled Die Reverse has a loyal following not only for its scarcity but for the strong doubling of the reverse, most easily noticed in the motto E PLURIBUS UNUM.
How much is an uncirculated 1961 half dollar worth?
Premiums for these coins are usually quite reasonable, but may rise according to the edition and overall coin condition. A 1961 Franklin Half Dollar in very fine condition exchange hands around the $13 mark, while a fifty cent piece in extremely fine condition may trade for slightly more.