1957 Franklin Half Dollar

About 25 million Franklin half dollars were minted in 1957, which is a definite improvement in number as opposed to the situation in 1955 and 1956, when only a few million (or less) were made during each of those two years. With the San Francisco mint no longer striking business-strike coins (at least until the late 1960s), all minting responsibilities fell on the shoulders of the Philadelphia and Denver mints.

Here’s a look at mintages and values of 1957 Franklin half dollars:

• 1957, 5,114,000 minted; $11

• 1957 proof, 1,247,952; $30

• 1957-D, 19,966,850; $11

*Values are for coins in a grade of Very Fine-20, unless otherwise noted.

In general, 1957 half dollars are extremely common and are readily available from most coin dealers. If you’re on a budget, the mid-grade Franklins will probably be more than satisfactory for your needs. Though, some aficionados with deeper pockets may decide that the uncirculated halves are what they crave, and will lay out the extra cash to purchase some nice, white Franklin half dollars. These cost less than $20 each for Mint State-63 examples. 1957 proof Franklin halves are easy to find and are generally brilliant.