The value of a Franklin Half Dollar (minted 1948-1963) depends on a combination of factors, primarily its condition, mint year, mintmark (if any), and any special characteristics it may possess.
Here’s a breakdown of the key elements influencing its worth:
- Circulated coins: In worn conditions like Very Good (VG) or Fine (F), most Franklin half dollars are primarily valued for their silver content.
- Uncirculated coins: Coins in higher grades like Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70) can fetch significantly higher prices, particularly if they have “Full Bell Lines” (FBL) – a designation signifying a crisp strike where all the horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell are visible. For instance, a 1953-S in XF-40 condition might be worth around $10, but an MS-65 FBL example could command over $16,000.
- Silver content: All Franklin half dollars are struck in 90% silver, meaning even the most common circulated examples have a base value tied to the current price of silver.
- Key dates: While generally considered a collectible and affordable series, certain years and mintmark combinations are in higher demand among collectors, resulting in higher values. Some of the most valuable Franklin half dollars include:
– 1949 S : $70 – $160 (MS60+)
– 1951 D : $30 – $170 (MS60+)
– 1953 P (Proof): $220+
– 1960 D : $15 – $230 (MS60+)
– 1961 P Doubled Die Reverse (Proof): $3,200+
- Full Bell Lines (FBL): As mentioned, the presence of clearly defined horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell adds a significant premium, especially for uncirculated coins.
- Errors and varieties: While Franklin Half Dollars are not known for possessing a wide variety of rare dates, certain mint errors or varieties like doubled dies or repunched mint marks can be highly sought after by specialized collectors.
- Identify the date and mintmark: The mintmark, if present, is located above the Liberty Bell on the reverse. “S” denotes the San Francisco Mint, “D” for Denver, and no mintmark signifies Philadelphia.
- Assess the grade: Carefully examine your coin’s condition using a grading guide like the one from Coin Values Discovery. Pay close attention to wear on Franklin’s cheek and hair on the obverse, and the lettering and lines on the Liberty Bell on the reverse. Consider consulting a professional grader for valuable specimens.
- Check for FBL and other qualities: Determine if your coin has FBL and research if any known errors or varieties exist for that specific year and mintmark.
- Consult value guides: Use resources like Greysheet or [www.coincollecting.com] to get an estimated value range based on the coin’s specific characteristics.
Note: Always remember that values fluctuate based on market demand and can vary depending on the buyer or seller.
Which Benjamin Franklin coins are valuable?
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?
From my experience, 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.
Is a 1963 Franklin half dollar worth anything?
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.