A Franklin Half Dollar contains 0.3617 troy oz of pure silver, worth $19.55 at today's spot price.
The Franklin half dollar shows Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. It was replaced by the Kennedy half in 1964.
Melt values use these spot prices (US dollars):
- Silver $54.05 per troy oz Current quote · Quote time Oct 24, 4:29 AM EDT
Some prices could not be refreshed recently and may be out of date.
Melt value is the metal content at spot price, not a buy or sell price. Collectible coins can be worth much more. For reference only.
Specifications
| Years | 1948–1963 |
|---|---|
| Face value | 50¢ |
| Composition | 90% silver, 10% copper |
| Gross weight | 12.5 g |
| Fineness | .900 (90%) |
| Pure metal | 0.3617 troy oz (11.25 g) |
| Diameter | 30.6 mm |
| Standard roll | 20 coins |
How the melt value is worked out
Melt value is the pure silver in the coin multiplied by the spot price. We use the coin's standard minted weight; worn coins weigh slightly less.
-
12.5 g × .900 fine ÷ 31.1035 g per troy oz = 0.3617 troy oz
0.3617 troy oz × $54.05 spot = $19.55
How to identify it
- Franklin faces right; the reverse shows the Liberty Bell with a small eagle beside it.
- The mint mark (D or S) is on the reverse, above the Liberty Bell's beam.
Melt value vs. collector value
Circulated Franklin halves trade for their silver. Uncirculated coins with full, unbroken lines across the bell ('full bell lines') sell for premiums.
Related tools
Sources
- US Mint: Domestic and Foreign Coins Manufactured by Mints of the United States, 1792–1965 — checked 2026-10-22
- Coinage Act of 1873 (17 Stat. 424) — checked 2026-10-22