The Franklin half dollar was minted from 1948 to 1963 and contains 0.3617 troy ounces of 90% silver (0.3255 oz pure). Designed by John R. Sinnock, it features Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. Total weight is 12.5 grams.
Franklin halves are common in the junk silver market and generally trade at low premiums similar to Walking Liberty halves. The series was replaced by the Kennedy half dollar in 1964 following President Kennedy's assassination.
The most valuable Franklin halves are those with Full Bell Lines (FBL) — complete horizontal lines across the bottom of the Liberty Bell on the reverse. FBL specimens in high grade (MS-65 and above) can command premiums far exceeding melt value. The 1953 and 1955 Philadelphia issues are among the hardest dates to find in FBL condition. For stackers, common-date Franklins are an efficient source of 90% silver with strong recognition.
Common dates trade near melt. Full Bell Lines (FBL) specimens in MS-65+ command strong premiums. The 1949-S and 1953-S are scarce dates.