90% Silver Franklin Half Dollar in Average Circulated Condition
The Franklin half dollar first appeared in circulation in April, 1948, but its design had been subject to debate for several months—and some controversy once it was released.
Face Design Debates
As early as 1941, design changes for dimes and half dollars were being considered, but demands for silver after Pearl Harbor put the subject to rest until the war’s end. Long-time Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross (who had been the nation’s first female governor when she succeeded her late husband as governor of Wyoming in 1925) was a fan of Benjamin Franklin and advocated for having him represented on a coin. Franklin would have objected, though, since he thought it inappropriate, preferring that coins have beneficial proverbs on them—sort of monetary versions of his Poor Richard’s Almanac.
Ross suggested a design similar to a Franklin medallion designed several years earlier by the mint’s Chief Engraver, John R. Sinnock. When the design was shopped around, the bust of Franklin on the coin’s face was met with approval, but the cracked Liberty Bell on the reverse caused some critics at the Commission of Fine Arts to complain that it “might lead to puns and to statements derogatory to United States coinage.” When it was learned that federal law required an eagle on all half dollars, a small one was added to the right of the bell. The arts commission objected to it, too, saying it was “insignificant and hardly discernible.” Ross found its inclusion ironic, considering that Franklin disliked eagles, calling them scavengers (he famously proposed the wild turkey as the national symbol). Both complaints were dismissed, and nearly half a billion coins were made with the design until 1964, when Franklin halves were replaced by Kennedy halves as silver was gradually removed from all U.S. coins.
Franklin Coin Variations, Values and the “Bugs Bunny” Half Dollar
Comparatively few variations occurred during the coin’s 16-year run, making it relatively inexpensive to collect. With about 1/3 ounce of silver, the coin’s melt value is around $6.50 at a bullion price of $18. In 1955, a die clash caused, causing a flaw outside Franklin’s mouth, appearing to some as buck teeth. This coin is known as the “Bugs Bunny” half dollar. An example in mint condition (MS-65) recently sold for $129.25.
Type I and Type II Coins
As dies wore and were recut, some minor changes were made to increase their durability. Notably, in 1958-59, the number of tailfeathers on the small eagle was reduced from four to three. These are known as Type I and Type II coins. About Uncirculated (AU 50+) common coins can sell for as much as $50, depending on scarcity and condition.
Collect the Scarce Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)
Despite their large mintage, Franklin half dollars are becoming scarcer as millions were melted down or hoarded for their silver. The Great American Coin Company® is pleased to offer these increasingly scarce Silver Franklin Half Dollars both individually and by the roll. The coins are 90% pure silver, in average circulated condition, and have random dates from 1948-1963. Specific date selection is not offered. Due to their high silver content, their price can vary with market fluctuations.
Franklin Half Dollars make an excellent gift for the coin collector in your family, but our supply is limited, so act now before this opportunity vanishes. In addition to Franklin half dollars, The Great American Coin Company offers a wide selection of collectible U.S. coins and paper money as well as currency from around the world. We keep adding unique items as they become available, so be sure to visit us frequently. And while you’re there, be sure to visit our blog for interesting and timely articles about currency and precious metals.
