The value of a Ben Franklin half dollar depends on several factors, including:
- Silver Content: All Franklin half dollars minted between 1948 and 1963 are composed of 90% silver. As a result, even heavily circulated coins will have a base value tied to the current market price of silver (bullion value). The current value of an average circulated example is at least $12.83, based on silver prices as of August 11, 2025.
- Date and Mintmark: Certain dates and mintmark combinations are more sought after by collectors and can command higher prices. The Franklin half dollar was produced at the Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (“D” mintmark), and San Francisco (“S” mintmark) Mints. Some key dates include:
– 1948-D
– 1949-S
– 1953
– 1955
Other noteworthy dates/mintmarks that are more valuable in higher grades include 1960-D, 1961-P and D , and 1962-P and D.
- Condition/Grade: The better the condition of the coin, the higher its value. High-quality, uncirculated (Mint State or MS-60+) coins are worth significantly more than circulated coins. Well-struck examples with full bell lines (FBL) on the reverse and sharp details on Franklin’s hair are also highly prized. Coins with cameo contrast in proof sets can also bring substantial premiums.
- Errors/Varieties: Some Franklin half dollars have errors or varieties that make them valuable to collectors. For example, the 1961-P Doubled Die Reverse (Proof) can be worth $3,200 or more . Other error coins exist, including those with die clashes, lamination errors, and clipped planchets.
- Coin-collecting websites and publications: Websites and books specializing in coin collecting often have detailed price guides for Franklin half dollars, broken down by date, mintmark, and grade.
- Professional coin dealers and appraisers: These experts can provide accurate appraisals of your coins, especially if you believe you have a rare or high-grade example.
- Online marketplaces and auction sites: Platforms like eBay can give you an idea of current market prices for Franklin half dollars in various conditions and with different attributes.
Note: The prices mentioned in the search results are subject to change based on market fluctuations in both the price of silver and collector demand.
Which Benjamin Franklin coins are valuable?
Great question! 1961 Proof DDR Franklin Half Dollar: $14,400.
1963 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar: $85,188.
1953-S Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar: $69,000.
1958 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar: $129,250.
1949-S Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar: $31,725.
1948 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar: $28,750.
Are old Franklin mint coins worth anything?
Yes, some Franklin Mint items are worth something. The Franklin Mint issues limited edition dolls, plates, glassware, die-cast cars, coins, medals, silver ingots and other collectibles. How much these items may be worth depends on their age, rarity, style, condition and other factors.
What are the key dates for the Franklin Half Dollar?
From my experience, By mintages, the key dates in this series are the 1948, 1949-S, 1953 and 1955. Franklin half dollars have been extensively melted for their silver, and many dates are rarer than the mintage figures indicate.
How much is a 1963 Franklin half dollar worth?
I can help with that. 1963 Franklin Half Dollar Pricing
A Franklin Half Dollar in very fine condition may fetch about $13, while a coin in extremely fine condition may be valued around $14. Premiums for these coins can rise, however, based on coin condition and mint year.