Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)
Obverse (Front) Design
Reverse (Back) Design
Coin Specifications
Date Range
Denomination
Designer / Engraver
Mints
Composition
Precious Metal Content
Weight
Diameter
Edge
Mintage
History & Background
The Franklin Half Dollar was struck from 1948 to 1963. It honors Benjamin Franklin, one of the best-known Founding Fathers, who was never president. The coin was designed by John R. Sinnock, Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, whose initials JRS appear below Franklin’s bust. Sinnock died in 1947, before the coin was released.
The Liberty Bell reverse
The reverse shows the Liberty Bell, based on Sinnock’s earlier design for the 1926 Sesquicentennial half dollar. A small eagle was added to the right of the bell so the coin carried the eagle that half dollars were expected to show.
End of the series
The Franklin half dollar was replaced in 1964 by the Kennedy half dollar, issued after the death of President John F. Kennedy.
Collecting Tips
- Because the coins are 90% silver, they are also valued for their metal content. Check today’s silver price before you buy or sell.
- Look for the Full Bell Lines (FBL) designation, which means the horizontal lines at the bottom of the Liberty Bell are fully separated; these coins sell at a premium.
- Avoid coins that have been cleaned or polished.
- Common dates in circulated grades are a simple way to start a set.
Photographs by Grade
Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963) (1948–1963) — Photographs by Grade
MS64
MS65
MS66
MS67
MS68
Frequently Asked Questions about the Franklin Half Dollar (1948-1963)
Are Franklin half dollars silver?
Yes. They are 90% silver and 10% copper, and every Franklin half dollar from 1948 to 1963 has this composition.
How much silver is in a Franklin half dollar?
About 0.3617 troy ounces of pure silver per coin.
What does FBL mean on a Franklin half dollar?
FBL stands for Full Bell Lines. It means the horizontal lines at the base of the Liberty Bell are complete and clearly separated, which is harder to find and adds value.
More Half Dollars
Kennedy Half Dollar (1964 to Date)
The Kennedy Half Dollar, first issued in 1964 after the death of President Kennedy, was struck in 90% silver in 1964 and in lower-silver…
Walking Liberty Half Dollar (1916-1947)
The Walking Liberty Half Dollar, struck 1916 to 1947, is a 90% silver coin often listed among the most beautiful United States coins.
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