1951 Franklin Half Dollar

About This Coin

The 1951 Franklin Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Franklin Half Dollars 1948-1963 series. In 1951, coins were struck at the Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Denver Mints with a combined mintage of 40.0 million. The obverse features Benjamin Franklin facing right and the reverse displays the Liberty Bell. Minted during the post-war economic boom, the final era of silver circulating coinage in the United States before the Coinage Act of 1965. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have cataloged 36 known die varieties for this date across 4 categories, including doubled die obverse, doubled die reverse, repunched mint mark and 1 other types. Produced 4 years before the celebrated 1955 key date. Across its variants, estimated values range from $37 to $689 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $12K in PR68 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by John R. Sinnock/John Frederick Lewis.