U.S. COIN REFERENCE · Franklin half dollar
Franklin halves: the bell’s lines and the coin’s surfaces
The crack is part of the design; it is not a mint defect.
By SalarsNet · Reviewed October 5, 2026
Franklin and the Liberty Bell
The 1948–1963 half dollar pairs Franklin’s profile with the Liberty Bell and a small eagle. The bell’s intentional crack should not be labeled an error. Photograph the bell, mintmark, rim, and portrait together so its small details remain attached to the full coin.
Type references: PCGS Franklin Half Dollar ↗
Full Bell Lines requires a definition
Inspect the horizontal lines with lighting that reveals interruptions. Apply the actual grading service’s Full Bell Lines requirements rather than assuming all services judge identical details. Wear, weak striking, and contact marks are separate observations. The cheek and fields can materially affect grade even when the bell looks sharp.
Type references: PCGS Franklin Half Dollar ↗
Proof and regular strike comparisons
Proofs were issued from 1950 through 1963. A reflective field needs supporting proof evidence, not brightness alone. Compare date, mint, strike, surfaces, and any verified designation; an exceptional Full Bell Lines sale should not price an ordinary raw half with unresolved detail.
Type references: PCGS Franklin Half Dollar ↗
Selected reviewed issue records
These catalog standards describe the named issue, not a measured specimen. The selected records below do not cover every date, mint, strike, or die variety. Reported production is labeled separately from established mintage. Unknown standards and mintage remain visible; survival estimates and certified populations are separate research questions.
No issue-level specification or mintage records are published for this category yet. Verify the exact date, mint, strike, metal, and subtype in its reference before using a numerical standard.
References and review
Reference reviewed October 5, 2026. Historical facts and catalog standards need to match the exact issue; price comparisons should be researched at the time of valuation.
Continue collecting
← Half dollars · U.S. coin reference · All collecting guides