1954 Franklin Half Dollar

1954 Franklin half dollars are common across the board in the lower grades, which makes this date easy to collect for those assembling basic date-and-mintmark collections in the worn grades. For coin collectors who want a little extra challenge, there are always the uncirculated specimens – and the proof 1954 half dollar for true Franklin half dollar aficionados.

Here’s a look at the mintages and values of 1954 Franklin half dollars:

• 1954, 13,188,202 minted; $11

• 1954 proof, 233,300; $120

• 1954-D, 25,445,580; $11

• 1954-S, 4,993,400; $11

*Values listed above are for coins in Very Fine-20 grade.

As with all Franklin half dollars, you should consider buying uncirculated pieces if you can afford them, and if you do purchase Franklins in Mint State, consider going one step further and buying specimens with full bell lines, if you can track down such coins. Franklin half dollars with complete lines across the Liberty Bell on the reverse are quite valuable and sought after.

If you go the route of buying a proof 1954 half, look for one that is crisp and has good surfaces, as many of proof Franklins are cloudy and/or spotted. If you get lucky and find a cameo proof, by all means buy it – if you can afford it, that is.