Numismatic Reference · 1948–1963
Franklin Half Dollar
Collector value up to $1,000
The short-lived Franklin Half ran only sixteen years before being replaced by the Kennedy Half, making it one of the more collectible short US series. We buy every date.
Specs
- Composition
- 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight
- 12.50 g
- Pure silver content
- 0.3617 troy oz
- Years struck
- 1948–1963
A short history
Introduced in 1948 at the request of Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross, the Franklin Half featured Ben Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. Production ended abruptly in 1963 to make way for the Kennedy Half following JFK's assassination.
What it's made of
Standard 90% silver half dollar composition: 12.5 grams gross, about 0.3617 troy oz of pure silver.
Key dates & varieties to watch
- 1949-S — lowest business-strike mintage
- 1953, 1955 — low-mintage Philadelphia issues
- Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation adds significant premium in uncirculated grades
Values for key dates depend heavily on grade and authentication. Bring your coins in for an in-person look — we evaluate every piece individually.
How to identify it
- Obverse: Franklin facing right
- Reverse: Liberty Bell with small eagle to the right
- Diameter 30.6 mm, weight 12.5 g
- Mint mark on reverse above the Liberty Bell
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Full Bell Lines' mean?
It refers to the horizontal lines at the bottom of the Liberty Bell. When those lines show complete separation without breaks, uncirculated coins earn the FBL designation and command higher premiums.
Related coins we buy
Bring your Franklin Half Dollars in for a free evaluation
Whether it's a single coin or a full collection, we make competitive offers on the spot. Book online or call — no obligation.