Franklin Half Dollars are special coins that were made in the United States from 1948 to 1963. Named after Benjamin Franklin, a famous American leader, these coins show his face on one side and the Liberty Bell on the other. While many of these coins are used in everyday transactions, some rare ones can be worth a lot of money, even reaching five figures! In this article, we will look at 13 Franklin Half Dollars that are especially valuable and find out why they are so sought after by collectors.
What Are Franklin Half Dollars?
Franklin Half Dollars are unique coins that were made during a time when silver was commonly used in coins. They are made of 90% silver and 10% copper, which gives them a nice weight and shine. Designed by John R. Sinnock, these coins were created to celebrate American independence and freedom. Each coin is about 30.6 mm in diameter and weighs around 12.5 grams.
Why Are Franklin Half Dollars Important?
Franklin Half Dollars are important not just for their silver content, but also because they are connected to Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of America. Franklin was known for his contributions to science, politics, and the arts. Collectors love these coins not only for their beauty but also for their history, making them popular among people who collect coins, called numismatists.
What Affects the Value of Franklin Half Dollars?
The value of Franklin Half Dollars can vary for several reasons:
1. Condition
The condition of a coin is really important. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70). The better the condition, the higher the price.
2. Mint Mark
The mint mark tells you where the coin was made. Some mint marks, like “D” for Denver or “S” for San Francisco, are rarer than others, which can affect how much a coin is worth.
3. Rarity
How many coins were made in a certain year also matters. Coins with lower production numbers are usually more valuable because they are harder to find.
4. Errors and Varieties
Sometimes coins are made with mistakes, or they have special features. These coins can be very valuable because collectors look for unique items.
5. Market Demand
The demand for certain coins can change. Sometimes more people want a specific coin, making it more valuable.
13 Franklin Half Dollars Worth Five Figures
Now, let’s look at 13 Franklin Half Dollars that can be worth a lot of money, sometimes even in the five-figure range.
1. 1949 S Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $10,000 – $15,000
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Details: This coin is popular because only 1.7 million were made. If it’s in great condition, it can sell for a high price.
2. 1953 S Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $5,000 – $12,000
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Details: With only 2.6 million coins produced, this one is rare and in high demand among collectors.
3. 1955 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $2,000 – $12,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: Known for its unique design, this coin can reach high values, especially in uncirculated conditions.
4. 1961 Proof Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $5,000 – $10,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: This coin is sought after for its deep contrast in the design and can fetch high prices.
5. 1962 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $4,000 – $10,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: With only 2.6 million made, this coin is popular among collectors.
6. 1954 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $3,000 – $8,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: While more common, this coin can still be valuable, especially in great condition.
7. 1958 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $4,000 – $6,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: This coin has a nice design and can reach high prices if well-kept.
8. 1950 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $2,000 – $5,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: Although it has a higher mintage, it’s still popular among collectors.
9. 1951 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $2,500 – $5,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: This coin has a strong design and can be worth more if in excellent condition.
10. 1963 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $2,000 – $4,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: As the last year for this series, it’s considered classic and can fetch good prices.
11. 1950 D Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $2,500 – $5,000
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Details: This coin is valued because it has a slightly lower production number.
12. 1948 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $1,500 – $3,500
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: Being the first year for the series, this coin is very popular among collectors.
13. 1959 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: $1,500 – $3,000
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (no mint mark)
- Details: This coin can still be worth a good amount in uncirculated condition.
How to Start Collecting Franklin Half Dollars
If you want to start collecting Franklin Half Dollars, here are some helpful tips:
1. Learn About the Coins
Understanding the history and details of Franklin Half Dollars is important. Books and websites can help you learn more.
2. Set a Spending Limit
Collecting coins can be costly, so it’s smart to set a budget. This way, you can manage your money while enjoying your hobby.
3. Buy from Trusted Sellers
When you buy coins, make sure to use trusted sellers. Check their reviews and ensure they guarantee the coins’ authenticity.
4. Think About Grading
Getting your coins graded can help you understand their value. This is especially important for coins that are worth a lot.
5. Join Collecting Groups
Connecting with other collectors can give you valuable tips and help you find new coins. Many clubs have events and resources for members.
6. Visit Coin Shows and Auctions
Coin shows and auctions are great places to find rare coins and meet fellow collectors. You might find coins that you can’t get anywhere else.
7. Store Your Coins Safely
Make sure to store your coins properly to keep them in good condition. Use special holders or albums designed for coin storage.
Conclusion
Franklin Half Dollars are not just interesting pieces of history; they also offer a great chance for collectors and investors to own something valuable. Some of these coins can be worth over ten thousand dollars, making them special to many people. To build a successful collection, it’s important to understand the factors that make these coins valuable, such as their mint marks, rarity, and condition. Whether you’re new to collecting or a seasoned expert, Franklin Half Dollars provide an exciting way to learn about America’s past and appreciate beautiful coin design.
FAQs
What are Franklin Half Dollars?
Franklin Half Dollars are U.S. coins minted from 1948 to 1963, featuring the portrait of Benjamin Franklin on one side and the Liberty Bell on the other. They contain 90% silver and 10% copper, making them significant for both their historical value and silver content.
Why are some Franklin Half Dollars worth five figures?
Certain Franklin Half Dollars are worth five figures due to their rarity, low mintage, and high demand among collectors. Factors such as condition (grade), mint marks (which indicate where the coin was minted), and unique features or errors also play a crucial role in determining their value.
How can I tell if my Franklin Half Dollar is valuable?
To determine if your Franklin Half Dollar is valuable, check its condition, mint mark, and rarity. Coins in uncirculated condition or those with mint errors tend to be more valuable. Consulting a coin grading guide or seeking help from a professional dealer can provide insights into your coin’s value.
Where can I buy Franklin Half Dollars?
You can buy Franklin Half Dollars from various places, including reputable coin dealers, online marketplaces, coin shows, and auctions. Ensure you purchase from trusted sources to guarantee the authenticity of the coins. It’s also a good idea to check reviews and ratings before making a purchase.
What should I consider when starting a collection of Franklin Half Dollars?
When starting a collection, educate yourself about the coins, set a budget, and buy from reputable dealers. Joining coin collector clubs can provide valuable information and networking opportunities. Properly storing your coins in holders or albums is also important to maintain their condition.