When America decided to feature real people on its coins, the first three were U.S. Presidents, but the fourth was Benjamin Franklin, a remarkable diplomat who never became president himself. Let’s dive into the history of this famous figure and explore the most valuable Franklin Half Dollars that collectors cherish today.
1. 1961 Proof DDR Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1961
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Error: Doubled Die Reverse
- Grade: PR 68
- Price Sold: $14,400 (August 11, 2020)
Franklin never pursued the presidency, despite his many accomplishments. This rare 1961 Proof DDR Franklin Half Dollar features a doubled die reverse and fetched a remarkable price in 2020, highlighting Franklin’s enduring legacy.
2. 1963 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1963
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 66+ FBL
- Price Sold: $85,188 (September 26, 2019)
The 1963 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar is highly sought after for its Full Bell Line (FBL) detail on the Liberty Bell. The coin represents the vision of Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross, who lobbied to place Franklin on the 50-cent coin.
3. 1953-S Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1953
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Grade: MS 66 FBL
- Price Sold: $69,000 (March 3, 2001)
Coined in San Francisco, this 1953-S Franklin Half Dollar features the Full Bell Line and represents the work of a posthumous effort by renowned designer Gilroy Roberts.
4. 1958 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1958
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 67+ FBL
- Price Sold: $129,250 (September 27, 2018)
The 1958 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar is another gem in the series, with its flawless bell line and high grade fetching an incredible price. The Liberty Bell design is iconic, making this coin a must-have for collectors.
5. 1949-S Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1949
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Grade: MS 67+ FBL
- Price Sold: $31,725 (September 27, 2018)
This 1949-S coin showcases exceptional detail, with a full bell line that increases its value. The San Francisco mint is known for producing high-quality coins, and this one is a prime example of that craftsmanship.
6. 1948 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1948
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 67 FBL
- Price Sold: $28,750 (July 30, 2003)
The 1948 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar was the first year the coin was minted, making it a special piece for collectors. Its excellent grade and detailed design of the Liberty Bell make it a prized coin.
7. 1955 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1955
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 67 FBL
- Price Sold: $14,100 (January 6, 2016)
The 1955 Franklin Half Dollar with a Full Bell Line showcases the detailed engravings on the Liberty Bell, a feature that adds significant value. This coin also has historical importance due to its place in the series.
8. 1952 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1952
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 67+ FBL
- Price Sold: $42,300 (January 27, 2019)
The 1952 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar stands out for its impeccable bell detail and rich history. As a part of the post-World War II coinage era, it’s a desirable collector’s piece.
9. 1951-S Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1951
- Mint Mark: San Francisco
- Grade: MS 67 FBL
- Price Sold: $30,550 (April 24, 2013)
This San Francisco minted coin from 1951 features a stunning Full Bell Line. Collectors prize this coin for its rarity and the mint’s known quality.
10. 1950 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1950
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 67+ FBL
- Price Sold: $39,600 (October 22, 2018)
The 1950 Franklin Half Dollar with Full Bell Line is another highly sought-after coin, praised for its detailed Liberty Bell design and historical context.
11. 1960 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1960
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 67 FBL
- Price Sold: $28,200 (August 10, 2016)
The 1960 coin, featuring the Full Bell Line, is a standout example of the Franklin Half Dollar series. Its historical and artistic value continue to make it a coveted piece in coin collections.
12. 1954-D Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1954
- Mint Mark: Denver
- Grade: MS 67 FBL
- Price Sold: $21,275 (June 1, 2002)
The 1954-D coin minted in Denver is a key piece for Franklin Half Dollar enthusiasts. Its high-quality design and historical importance make it one of the most valuable in the series.
13. 1962 Full Bell Line Franklin Half Dollar
- Year: 1962
- Mint Mark: None (Philadelphia)
- Grade: MS 66 FBL
- Price Sold: $17,825 (July 20, 2004)
The 1962 Franklin Half Dollar is part of the final years of the series before it was replaced by the Kennedy Half Dollar. Its Full Bell Line detail and strong historical value make it a lasting symbol of American coinage.
