In the world of coin collecting, few pieces capture the imagination quite like the 1959 Franklin Half Dollar. This coin, minted in the twilight years of the Franklin series, holds a special place in American numismatics. But what makes it so valuable, and how much can collectors expect to pay for one today? Let's dive deep into the fascinating world of the 1959 half dollar.
A Brief History of the Franklin Half Dollar
The Franklin Half Dollar series, minted from 1948 to 1963, was the brainchild of Mint Director Nellie Tayloe Ross. Despite Benjamin Franklin's own opposition to putting real people on coins, Ross believed that by the mid-20th century, this practice had become an accepted way to honor American heroes.
The 1959 issue came at a pivotal time:
- It was well-established in the series
- Only four years remained before the series' unexpected end
- The assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963 would lead to a new design
Physical Characteristics and Design Elements
Obverse Design
- Portrait of Benjamin Franklin facing right
- "LIBERTY" arched above
- "IN GOD WE TRUST" below
- Date (1959) to the right of Franklin's image
Reverse Design
- Liberty Bell as the central motif
- Small eagle to the right (added to comply with coinage laws)
- "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" along the top edge
- "HALF DOLLAR" along the bottom
- "E PLURIBUS UNUM" to the left of the bell
Composition and Specifications
- 90% silver, 10% copper
- Weight: 12.5 grams
- Diameter: 30 millimeters
- Reeded edge
Factors Affecting the 1959 Half Dollar Value
Several factors influence the value of a 1959 Franklin half dollar:
- Mint Mark: Coins from Denver (D) vs. Philadelphia (no mark)
- Condition: Circulated vs. uncirculated grades
- Full Bell Lines (FBL): Premium for coins with clear, unbroken lines on the Liberty Bell
- Strike Quality: Sharpness and detail of the design elements
- Proof vs. Business Strike: Proof coins generally command higher prices
- Errors and Varieties: Certain minting errors can significantly increase value
1959 Half Dollar Value Chart
| Mint Mark | G4 | VG8 | F12 | VF20 | XF40 | AU50 | MS60 | MS65 | MS67 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Mark | $9.50 | $9.50 | $9.50 | $10 | $14 | $17 | $20 (FBL: $22) | $60 (FBL: $100) | $2,000 (FBL: $20,500) |
| D | $9.50 | $9.50 | $9.50 | $10 | $14 | $17 | $20 (FBL: $20) | $60 (FBL: $100) | N/A (FBL: $7,500) |
Note: FBL = Full Bell Lines
Proof Coins
Proof coins, struck at the Philadelphia Mint, have their own value scale:
| Grade | PR60 | PR63 | PR65 | PR67 | PR69 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Value | $17 (C: $18) | $22 (C: $55) | $34 (C: $165, DC: $3,750) | $55 (C: $800, DC: $15,500) | $750 (C: $12,500, DC: $50,000) |
C = Cameo, DC = Deep Cameo
Notable Varieties and Errors
"Bugs Bunny" Variety
- Caused by die clash
- Visible line near Franklin's mouth resembling buck teeth
- Values range from $15 (F12) to $4,500 (MS66+ FBL)
"Goiter" Variety
- Result of a die break creating a double line at Franklin's throat
- Uncirculated examples start at $135 (MS60)
- FBL versions can reach $650 or more at MS65+
Mintage Figures
Understanding mintage numbers helps collectors gauge rarity:
- Philadelphia: 6,200,000
- Denver: 13,053,750
- Proof: 1,149,291
Grading the 1959 Franklin Half Dollar
Accurate grading is crucial for determining a coin's value. Key areas to examine include:
- Hair Details: Sharpness of Franklin's hair strands
- Cheek: Look for luster and absence of marks
- Bell Lines: Clarity and completeness of lines on the Liberty Bell
- Overall Luster: Brilliance and shine of the coin's surface
The Importance of Full Bell Lines (FBL)
The Full Bell Lines designation is critical for Franklin Half Dollars:
- Refers to the complete, unbroken horizontal lines on the Liberty Bell
- Significantly increases value, especially in higher grades
- Often challenging to find due to weak strikes
Tips for Collectors
- Invest in a quality magnifying glass or loupe to examine coins closely.
- Learn to distinguish between wear and strike weakness, especially on high points like Franklin's cheek.
- Look for FBL examples in high grades, as these command significant premiums.
- Be wary of cleaned coins, which can significantly reduce value.
- Consider having valuable coins professionally graded by reputable services like PCGS or NGC.
The Silver Factor
The 1959 half dollar contains 0.36169 ounces of pure silver. This intrinsic metal value provides a baseline worth for even heavily circulated examples:
- At $20 per ounce of silver, the melt value is approximately $7.23
- This ensures that no 1959 Franklin half dollar is worth less than its silver content
Historical Context
1959 was a significant year in American history:
- Alaska and Hawaii became the 49th and 50th states
- The first Grammy Awards were held
- NASA introduced the Mercury Seven astronauts
This historical backdrop adds to the coin's appeal for many collectors.
Collecting Strategies
For those looking to build a collection around the 1959 Franklin Half Dollar:
- Start with circulated examples to learn the coin's features
- Gradually move to higher grades as your budget and expertise grow
- Consider collecting both Philadelphia and Denver mints
- Add a proof version to showcase the coin's design at its best
- Hunt for varieties like the "Bugs Bunny" or "Goiter" for added interest
Investment Potential
While primarily a collector's item, the 1959 Franklin Half Dollar has shown steady appreciation:
- High-grade examples have seen significant value increases over the past decades
- The silver content provides a hedge against inflation
- Rare varieties and top-graded coins have shown the most growth potential
Preservation and Storage
Proper care is essential to maintain a coin's value:
- Use non-PVC flips or holders
- Store in a cool, dry environment
- Handle coins by the edges, wearing cotton gloves if possible
- Avoid cleaning, as improper techniques can damage the coin's surface
The Legacy of the Franklin Half Dollar
The Franklin Half Dollar series, including the 1959 issue, represents a unique period in American coinage:
- It bridges the gap between classic and modern designs
- Honors one of America's founding fathers
- Showcases mid-20th century minting techniques and artistry
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 1959 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1959 Franklin half dollar is more than just a piece of currency; it's a tangible connection to mid-20th century America. Its silver content, historical significance, and various collectible factors make it a fascinating coin for both novice and experienced collectors.
Whether you're drawn to the artistry of the design, the challenge of finding high-grade examples, or the potential for discovering valuable errors, the 1959 Franklin half dollar offers something for every numismatic enthusiast. As you build your collection or consider investing in these coins, remember that knowledge is your most valuable tool.
By understanding the factors that influence their value – from mintmarks and condition to rare varieties and historical context – you'll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and appreciate the true worth of these fascinating pieces of American history. The 1959 Franklin Half Dollar stands as a testament to the enduring allure of numismatics, inviting collectors to explore, learn, and connect with a pivotal era in our nation's past.
