Franklin half dollars, minted from 1948 to 1963, are popular among collectors due to their historical significance and silver content. While many of these coins are only worth their silver melt value, certain key dates and rare varieties can be worth thousands of dollars.
If you own a Franklin half dollar, you might be sitting on a small fortune—especially if it’s one of the rare or highly sought-after versions. Below, we’ll explore six of the most valuable Franklin half dollars, what makes them special, and how to determine if your coin is valuable.
1. 1953-S Franklin Half Dollar (Full Bell Lines) – Up to $35,000
The 1953-S Franklin half dollar is one of the rarest and most valuable in the series. What makes this coin particularly sought after is the Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation, which refers to the sharp details on the Liberty Bell on the reverse.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Most 1953-S half dollars were weakly struck, making sharp details rare.
- Only a few high-quality FBL examples exist, increasing their collector demand.
- In top condition (MS66 FBL or higher), this coin has sold for over $35,000 at auctions.
2. 1955 Franklin Half Dollar (Bugs Bunny Variety) – Up to $5,000
The 1955 Franklin half dollar is famous for its “Bugs Bunny” variety, named because of a minting error that makes Franklin’s lips look like buck teeth.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Caused by a die clash, this variety is a favorite among collectors.
- Coins in mint condition (MS65 or higher) can fetch $5,000 or more.
- Even lower-grade examples can sell for several hundred dollars.
3. 1961-D Franklin Half Dollar (Full Bell Lines) – Up to $15,000
The 1961-D Franklin half dollar is another coin where the Full Bell Lines designation significantly boosts its value.
Why It’s Valuable:
- The Denver Mint had issues striking the Franklin half dollar properly, making FBL examples extremely rare.
- High-grade versions (MS66 FBL or higher) have sold for $15,000 or more.
4. 1949-S Franklin Half Dollar (Full Bell Lines) – Up to $20,000
As an early issue in the Franklin series, the 1949-S is highly desirable, especially with Full Bell Lines.
Why It’s Valuable:
- The low-mintage makes this one of the harder-to-find coins in high grade.
- Well-struck FBL examples are scarce, and MS66 FBL coins can reach $20,000 at auction.
5. 1950 Franklin Half Dollar (Proof) – Up to $70,000
The 1950 Proof Franklin half dollar is one of the rarest proof issues in the series, with only 51,386 minted.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Many proofs from this year were mishandled, making high-quality examples rare.
- Deep Cameo (DCAM) versions, which have a strong contrast between the frosted design and mirror-like background, are extremely valuable.
- A PR68 DCAM example sold for over $70,000.
6. 1962 Franklin Half Dollar (Full Bell Lines) – Up to $18,000
The 1962 Franklin half dollar is a relatively common coin, but finding one with Full Bell Lines is a different story.
Why It’s Valuable:
- Most 1962 Franklin half dollars are weakly struck, making FBL examples scarce.
- High-grade MS66 FBL coins have sold for $18,000 or more.
How to Determine If Your Franklin Half Dollar Is Valuable
If you own a Franklin half dollar, here are some key factors that determine its value:
1. Check for Full Bell Lines (FBL)
Coins with Full Bell Lines (sharp and complete horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell) are worth significantly more than regular strikes.
2. Look for Rare Varieties
Certain die errors (like the Bugs Bunny variety) can increase a coin’s value.
3. Verify the Coin’s Condition (Grade)
- Coins in Mint State (MS) condition are more valuable than worn examples.
- A coin grading service like PCGS or NGC can authenticate and grade your coin.
4. Consider the Coin’s Mintage
Lower-mintage coins are often rarer and more valuable, especially if they have strong strikes and good preservation.
Where to Sell Your Franklin Half Dollar
If you think you have a valuable Franklin half dollar, here are some options for selling it:
- Online auction sites (eBay, Heritage Auctions, Stack’s Bowers)
- Coin dealers who specialize in rare U.S. coins
- Coin shows and conventions where collectors look for high-value pieces
- Certified grading services (PCGS, NGC) that can verify your coin’s authenticity before selling
Conclusion: Your Franklin Half Dollar Could Be Worth a Fortune
While many Franklin half dollars are only worth their silver melt value, certain rare dates, high grades, and error varieties can make them incredibly valuable. Whether you have a 1953-S FBL, a Bugs Bunny variety, or a 1950 proof, your coin could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
If you think you have a valuable Franklin half dollar, get it graded and appraised—you may just have a hidden treasure in your collection!
For expert evaluations and current Franklin half dollar values, visit Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
Disclaimer – Our team has carefully fact-checked this article to make sure it’s accurate and free from any misinformation. We’re dedicated to keeping our content honest and reliable for our readers.