Franklin Half Dollar

1948-1963 • United States • 50¢

About This Coin

The Franklin Half Dollar honors Founding Father Benjamin Franklin. It features his profile on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. It was the last circulating U.S. coin to feature a non-president.

Specifications

Composition

90% Silver, 10% Copper

Weight

12.5 grams

Diameter

30.6 mm

Edge

Reeded

Designer

John R. Sinnock

Mintage

Varies by year (2,400,000 to 53,400,000)

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$7-10
Good (G)	$10-12
Fine (F)	$12-15
Very Fine (VF)	$15-20
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$20-40
Uncirculated (MS)	$40-200+

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

Look for Benjamin Franklin on the obverse with "LIBERTY" and "IN GOD WE TRUST". The reverse shows the Liberty Bell with a small eagle to the right (required by law). Mint mark appears on the reverse above the bell. Look for Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation - clear separation in the Liberty Bell's horizontal lines significantly increases value.

Historical Context

Designed by John R. Sinnock and minted from 1948-1963, the Franklin Half replaced the Walking Liberty design. Franklin was the first non-president on a regular-issue U.S. coin. The series ended in 1963 following President Kennedy's assassination, when the Kennedy Half Dollar was rushed into production. The small eagle on the reverse was added reluctantly to satisfy legal requirements.

Notable Varieties

1948-D
1949-S
1953
Full Bell Lines (FBL)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Full Bell Lines (FBL)?

Full Bell Lines refers to complete, unbroken horizontal lines at the bottom of the Liberty Bell on the reverse. Due to die wear and striking pressure, most Franklin Halves have incomplete lines. FBL coins command significant premiums, sometimes 5-10x more than non-FBL examples.

Why is there an eagle on the Franklin Half?

Federal law at the time required all coins above the dime denomination to feature an eagle. The designers reluctantly added a small eagle to the right of the Liberty Bell to comply, though it was considered an afterthought and somewhat ruins the clean design.