The 1958 Franklin Half Dollar is worth anywhere from $12 in worn condition to over $100 in high-grade mint state. Whether you found one in a dusty jar or inherited a small collection, these silver coins are highly prized by everyday Americans for both their precious metal content and their historical charm.
History and Composition of the 1958 Franklin Half Dollar
The 1958 Franklin Half Dollar features the iconic profile of Benjamin Franklin on the obverse and the Liberty Bell on the reverse. This series is particularly special because it was the last half dollar series struck entirely in 90% silver before the introduction of the Kennedy Half Dollar. If you are unsure if your coin is authentic, using the best coin identifier app can help you confirm its details in seconds.
Each coin contains 0.36169 ounces of pure silver. This means that even if the coin is heavily scratched or worn down, it will always have a baseline value tied to the current market price of silver. For many casual hunters, the CoinHix app is a great tool to keep track of these fluctuating bullion values. Collectors often look for the “Full Bell Lines” (FBL) detail on the reverse, which indicates a very sharp strike and significantly boosts the coin’s market price.
Identifying Mint Marks and Key Varieties
In 1958, these coins were produced at two locations: Philadelphia and Denver. The Philadelphia mint coins do not have a mint mark, while the Denver coins feature a small “D” above the Liberty Bell’s yoke on the reverse. Interestingly, 1958 saw a relatively low mintage compared to later years, making them slightly more elusive in high grades.
To get a better idea of what your specific coin might be worth, you can check the 1958 half dollar value guide which breaks down the pricing by mint mark and condition. While millions were minted, finding one that hasn’t been circulated is the key to a big payday. Most coins found in change today will be “Average Circulated” (AC) grade, but those tucked away in original bank rolls can reach impressive valuations.
Understanding the Value Based on Condition
Coin grading is the most important factor in determining the final price. Professional graders look for luster, marks, and the sharpness of Benjamin Franklin’s hair and the lines on the Liberty Bell. A coin that looks shiny and “new” is described as Mint State (MS). If your coin has no wear and high eye appeal, it could be worth a significant premium.
For those looking for data on professional grading tiers, the 1958 Franklin Half Dollar MS price data shows that coins graded MS65 or higher can sell for hundreds of dollars at auction. If you are scanning your collection at home, the CoinHix app can provide high-resolution images to help you compare your coin’s condition to known grades, making it easier to decide if professional grading is worth the investment.
| Condition / Grade | 1958 (No Mint Mark) | 1958-D |
|---|---|---|
| Good / Very Good (Worn) | $11.00 – $13.00 | $11.00 – $13.00 |
| Extremely Fine (Light Wear) | $14.00 – $16.00 | $14.00 – $16.00 |
| Uncirculated (MS63) | $25.00 – $35.00 | $20.00 – $30.00 |
| Choice Uncirculated (MS65) | $55.00 – $90.00 | $45.00 – $70.00 |
| Proof Strike (PF65) | $40.00 – $60.00 | N/A |
Special Proof Sets and Errors
In 1958, the Philadelphia mint also produced “Proof” coins specifically for collectors. These coins have a mirror-like finish and were sold in protective sets. Because they were never intended for circulation, they usually remain in excellent condition. A 1958 Proof Franklin Half can be a beautiful addition to any collection and typically sells for a premium over regular business strikes.
Always keep an eye out for errors, such as “doubled dies,” where the lettering or images appear doubled. While rare for the 1958 series, finding one can turn a $15 coin into a $100+ treasure. Using the CoinHix app can help you zoom in on these tiny details to see if you have discovered a rare minting mistake.
Q: Is a 1958 Franklin Half Dollar made of real silver?
A: Yes, all 1958 Franklin Half Dollars are made of 90% silver and 10% copper. This gives them an inherent “melt value” that is usually much higher than their 50-cent face value.
Q: Where is the mint mark on a 1958 half dollar?
A: You can find the mint mark on the reverse side of the coin, located directly above the Liberty Bell’s yoke and below the “E” in “STATES.” A “D” stands for Denver, while no mark means it was struck in Philadelphia.
Q: Why is my 1958 half dollar worth more than the silver price?
A: While silver content provides a floor for the price, collector demand for high-grade specimens or specific mint marks can drive the value much higher. Coins in pristine condition or those with Full Bell Lines are particularly sought after.
