1953 Franklin Half Dollar

About This Coin

The 1953 Franklin Half Dollar is a United States half dollar from the Franklin Half Dollars 1948-1963 series. In 1953, coins were struck at the Denver, Philadelphia, and San Francisco Mints with a combined mintage of 27.8 million. The obverse features Benjamin Franklin facing right and the reverse displays the Liberty Bell. The 1953-S is the condition rarity of the series — extremely scarce in Full Bell Lines designation. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 12.5 grams, 30 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Collectors have cataloged 7 known die varieties for this date across 6 categories, including cud, doubled die obverse, doubled die reverse and 3 other types. Struck two years before the 1955 key date, the lowest-mintage regular issue in the series. Across its variants, estimated values range from $37 to $261 depending on mint mark, grade, and strike type. A notable auction result reached $17K in MS67 grade at Heritage Auctions. Designed by John R. Sinnock/John Frederick Lewis.