1963 Half Dollar Value: The Last One in the Series

The 1963 half dollar holds a special place in American numismatic history. As the final year of the Franklin half dollar series, this coin became an unexpected collectible, not because of its rarity at the time, but due to the historic transition that followed. Shortly after its minting, John F. Kennedy was assassinated, and the Franklin one was abruptly replaced by the Kennedy coin.

This sudden shift increased interest in the 1963 Franklin half dollar, making it one of the most sought-after silver coins of the 20th century. But how much is it worth today? 

If you have found one in an old collection or want to invest in silver coins, this guide will break down everything you need to know about the 1963 half dollar value today, its varieties, mint errors, and historical significance.

Moreover, you will find out how a free coin identifier app can help you in this regard. 

The History Behind 

To truly appreciate the 1963 Benjamin Franklin half dollar, we need to go back to the post-war era of the 1940s when the design was first introduced. It debuted in 1948 in honor of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most influential Founding Fathers. 

The coin was unique, as it was the first U.S. currency to feature a real historical figure who was not a president. Franklin’s scientific and diplomatic achievements made him a fitting choice for a coin that symbolized intellect and progress.

However, despite its significance, the coin was not immune to change. In 1963, following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the nation mourned deeply, and Congress quickly moved to honor him by placing his likeness on a coin. 

The half dollar was chosen because Kennedy’s widow, Jacqueline Kennedy, did not want to replace George Washington on the quarter. This decision marked the end of the Franklin series. That is why the half dollar coin 1963 is a historic transition piece.

Interestingly, in the early 1960s, rising silver prices led to increased hoarding of coins containing high silver content. Because the 1963 silver half dollar value was worth more in metal than its face value, millions were saved rather than spent. This hoarding is one reason why uncirculated specimens are still available today, though high-grade examples remain scarce.

The Design and Composition

The 1963 Liberty half dollar value is partly driven by its design. The obverse (front) features a right-facing portrait of Benjamin Franklin, his serious expression reflecting his legacy as an intellectual and statesman. Above his head, "LIBERTY" is boldly inscribed, while "IN GOD WE TRUST" sits along the bottom rim. The minting year "1963" appears to the right of Franklin’s neck.

On the reverse (back), the Liberty Bell is displayed as a symbol of American independence. Notably, a small eagle sits to the right of the bell—an element that was reluctantly added to comply with U.S. law, which mandated that half dollars include an eagle. The coin's mint mark, if present, appears just above the Liberty Bell.

More about cents: How Much Is a 2 Cent Coin Worth?

How Much Is a 1963 Half Dollar Worth?

Collectors and investors alike are keen on understanding the 1963 Franklin half dollar value in today’s market. Below is a table outlining approximate values based on condition and variety.

Disclaimer: Values are approximate and may fluctuate with market conditions.

Varieties and Their Values

1963-D Franklin Half Dollar Value

The 1963 D Franklin half dollar value is generally lower than its Philadelphia counterpart unless it exhibits Full Bell Lines. With over 67 million minted, circulated specimens are relatively common, but high-grade FBL examples are rare. An MS 67+ FBL 1963 D half dollar value was once over $22,500!

1963 No Mint Mark Franklin Half Dollar Value

With 22 million struck, these coins are scarcer than their Denver-minted counterparts. Regular strikes in MS 66+ condition can be worth upwards of $1,550, but the rarest FBL specimens have fetched up to $85,000!

1963 Proof Franklin Half Dollar Value

Philadelphia also produced proof coins, with over 3 million minted. These proofs, especially those with Deep Cameo (DCAM) contrast, are highly desirable, with top-graded examples reaching $5,000.

What Makes a 1963 Half Dollar Rare?

Some of them exhibit minting errors, increasing their value significantly. Notable errors include:

"Bugs Bunny" Die Clash – Named for the appearance of Franklin having buck teeth due to a die clash. Some examples have a 1963 Franklin half dollar value of $675 in MS 64 FBL.

Off-Center Strikes – If struck improperly, part of the design can be missing, raising the coin’s value.

Double Die Reverse (DDR) – Extra visible impressions on the reverse can make the coin worth hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Struck on the Wrong Planchet – If struck on a dime, penny, or nickel planchet, 1963 Ben Franklin half dollar value sums range from $4,000 to over $7,000.

The 1963 half dollar silver value is driven by its history, silver content and collector demand. Whether you’re drawn to its silver investment potential or its significance as the final year of the Franklin series, this coin remains a piece of American history. 

If you own one or any other, e.g., one from valuable Mexican coins, and want to know its true worth, check its mint mark, grade and possible errors, and do not forget to use the Coin ID Scanner app for instant identification and pricing details.

FAQs

1. What makes a 1963 half dollar rare?

Several factors contribute to the rarity. Coins in Mint State (MS 65+), those with the Full Bell Line (FBL) designation, and those exhibiting rare mint errors are significantly more valuable. 1963 Full Bell Line Franklin half dollar specimens are especially sought after because they indicate a well-struck coin with crisp details.

2. Is it the same as the 1963 Kennedy half dollar value?

Technically, no. The 1963 Kennedy half dollar value is a common misconception—there is no 1963 Kennedy half dollar because the Kennedy series began in 1964. However, both the 1963 Franklin and the 1964 Kennedy ones were made of 90% silver and 10% copper.

3. Where can I sell my specimen?

If you have a coin, there are several options for selling it. Local coin shops, online marketplaces and auction sites offer potential buyers. Additionally, using a professional grading service can help maximize its value. If you are unsure about authenticity or value, consider using the Coin ID Scanner app, which can analyze and estimate your coin’s worth instantly.

Sources:

1. https://www.govmint.com/1963-50c-franklin-half-dollar

2. https://www.coinstudy.com/1963-franklin-half-dollar