Although minted for only 15 years (1948–1963), the Franklin half dollar remains a sought-after gem among coin collectors. This 50-cent piece honors one of America’s founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin, and is made of 90% silver. Its intrinsic value far exceeds its face value, with some coins fetching thousands of dollars in recent auctions.
6 Most Valuable Franklin Half Dollars
While all Franklin half dollars hold significant worth, certain pieces stand out for their rarity and pristine condition. Here are six of the most valuable Franklin half dollars recorded:
| Franklin Half Dollar | Value |
|---|---|
| 1951 Franklin half-dollar proof | $82,250 |
| 1953-S Franklin half dollar | $66,000 |
| 1953 Franklin half-dollar proof | $63,250 |
| 1950 Franklin half-dollar proof | $44,650 |
| 1955 Franklin half-dollar proof | $43,200 |
| 1961 Franklin half-dollar proof | $40,800 |
1. 1951 Franklin Half-Dollar Proof
Proof coins are highly valued for their sharp, detailed strikes, and the 1951 proof is no exception. Its exceptional craftsmanship highlights every detail of Franklin’s profile.
- Why It’s Special: The deep cameo appearance and superb gem-plus condition make it one of the finest examples.
- Record Sale: $82,250 in 2017.
2. 1953-S Franklin Half Dollar
Struck at the San Francisco Mint, only about 4 million of these coins were produced, making them rare.
- Unique Feature: Coins with fully visible bell lines on the Liberty Bell reverse are incredibly scarce due to weak strikes.
- Record Sale: $66,000 in 2024.
3. 1953 Franklin Half-Dollar Proof
This proof coin is celebrated for its stunning deep cameo details and near-perfect condition.
- Why Collectors Love It: Only a handful of 1953 proofs are considered superb gems.
- Record Sale: $63,250 in 2006.
4. 1950 Franklin Half-Dollar Proof
The 1950 proof marked a return to proof coin production after an eight-year hiatus. However, many lacked the expected detail, making well-struck examples highly valuable.
- Rarity Factor: Detailed strikes with deep cameos are incredibly hard to find.
- Record Sale: $44,650 in 2017.
5. 1955 Franklin Half-Dollar Proof
Although relatively common, many 1955 proofs suffer from surface marks due to Mint packaging.
- Collector’s Dream: Flawless examples with minimal marks are extremely rare.
- Record Sale: $43,200 in 2021.
6. 1961 Franklin Half-Dollar Proof
This coin stands out for its scarcity in deep cameo condition, with only a few pristine examples known.
- Market Appeal: Collectors prize its crisp details and gorgeous finish.
- Record Sale: $40,800 in 2018.
Factors Affecting Franklin Half Dollar Values
If you own a Franklin half dollar, take a closer look—these factors could significantly boost its value:
- Proof Coins
- Recognizable by sharp details and deep cameo appearances. Look for certification or inspect the coin’s precision.
- Condition
- Coins with minimal wear and sharp details fetch higher prices. Coins that have circulated extensively lose their luster and value.
- Low Mintage
- Rare mint years like 1948, 1949, 1953-S, 1955, and 1956 command premium prices.
Fast Fact
Even lower-grade Franklin half dollars are worth at least $12 due to their silver content alone.
Worth More Than 50 Cents
The Franklin half dollar may not have been in production for long, but its rich history and silver composition make it a timeless collector’s item. If you find one in your possession, it’s worth more than just its face value—it’s a piece of American history.
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