1948 Franklin Half Dollar
Base
About This Coin
The 1948 Franklin Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Franklin Half Dollars 1948-1963 series — the first year of the series. In 1948, coins were struck at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints with a combined mintage of 7.0 million. This ranks 3rd of 16 years by total mintage, below the series median of 27.1 million. The obverse features Benjamin Franklin facing right and the reverse displays the Liberty Bell. First year of the Franklin Half Dollar. Struck at Philadelphia and Denver. Initial production was modest. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have cataloged 34 known die varieties for this date across 6 categories, including doubled die obverse, doubled die reverse, doubled working hub obverse and 3 other types. Produced 7 years before the celebrated 1955 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $37 to $177 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $10K in MS60 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by John R. Sinnock/John Frederick Lewis.
Value Estimates
Values as of May 2026 — range across all strike types, reflecting typical grades (G-4 through MS-63). Coins in lower or exceptional grades may fall outside this range.
