The 1956 Franklin half dollar is a special piece for coin collectors. Issued by the U.S. Mint over 65 years ago, it holds both historical and numismatic value.
If you’re a coin enthusiast or just curious about this iconic half-dollar, this guide will give you insights into its design, history, and current market value.
What is the 1956 Franklin Half Dollar Made Of?
The 1956 Franklin half dollar is made of 90% silver and 10% copper. Part of a series produced between 1948 and 1963, this coin was a tribute to Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States.
Unlike modern coins, the Franklin half dollar contains a significant amount of silver, which increases its value beyond just the 50-cent face value.
Discover Rare U.S. Coins Still Circulating Today—Hidden Gems Worth Collecting!
Key Specifications of the 1956 Franklin Half Dollar
- Value: 50 cents
- Diameter: 30.61 mm
- Weight: 12.50 g
- Silver Content: 0.36169 troy oz
- Edge: Reeded
- Designer: John R. Sinnock (with contributions from Gilroy Roberts)
A Brief History Behind the Coin’s Design
The decision to feature Benjamin Franklin on the half dollar was proposed by Nellie Tayloe Ross, the first female director of the U.S. Mint. She admired Franklin’s contributions to the country and wanted to honor him with his own coin.
The design process started in 1947 and was led by John R. Sinnock, the chief engraver at the time. Although Sinnock passed away before completing the project, his colleague Gilroy Roberts finalized the design.
The obverse of the coin displays Franklin’s portrait with inscriptions like “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and the year “1956.” The reverse side shows the Liberty Bell with a small eagle on the right, surrounded by “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” and “HALF DOLLAR.”
Turn Pocket Change into a Fortune: Uncovering the Secret Wealth of Barber Coins!
The Evolution of the Franklin Half-Dollar
The Franklin half dollar replaced the Walking Liberty half dollar, which had been in circulation since 1916. Due to legal requirements, the design of a coin must remain unchanged for at least 25 years, which allowed for the introduction of Franklin’s image in 1948.
However, the series came to an abrupt end in 1963 following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The country decided to honor Kennedy by featuring him on the half dollar coin, thus discontinuing the Franklin series.
The 1956 Franklin Half Dollar Varieties
In 1956, only the Philadelphia Mint produced Franklin half dollars. Two main varieties exist: the regular strike and the proof coin. Here’s a quick overview of both:
- 1956 P Franklin Half Dollar (Regular Strike):
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 4,032,000 coins
- Value in Circulated Condition: $9 to $11.50
- Specifications: 90% silver, 10% copper, 12.5 grams
- 1956 Proof Franklin Half Dollar:
- Mint Location: Philadelphia
- Mintage: 669,384 coins
- Value (Uncirculated Condition): $75 or more
- Unique Feature: Two types of reverse designs (Type 1 with four feathers and Type 2 with three feathers)
Discover the Rare 1952 Silver Quarter: A Coin Collector’s Treasure
Error Coins from 1956
Like many vintage coins, the 1956 Franklin half dollar has its share of minting errors, which make some coins even more valuable. Here are a few notable errors:
- Clipped Planchet Error: Occurs when a misalignment during the blank cutting process causes a portion of the coin to be missing.
- Doubled Die Error: If the die strikes the blank coin twice at different angles, you may see doubled images on the coin.
- Clashed Die Error (Bugs Bunny Franklins): When the die hits without a planchet in between, Franklin’s lips appear to have “buck teeth,” creating a unique collectible version.
How Much is the 1956 Franklin Half Dollar Worth Today?
The value of the 1956 Franklin half dollar is largely influenced by its silver content. The melt value alone is around $7.94, but the price for collectors varies depending on the condition and rarity of the coin. Circulated coins are typically worth between $9 and $11.50, while proof coins can start at $75.
For higher-grade coins, prices can soar. For example, a superb gem uncirculated 1956 proof half dollar (PR 68 Deep Cameo) was once sold for $25,850.
Conclusion
The 1956 Franklin half dollar is more than just a coin; it’s a piece of American history. Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just getting started, adding this coin to your collection is a valuable investment.
With its silver composition, unique design, and potential for rare mint errors, the 1956 Franklin half dollar continues to capture the interest of coin enthusiasts.