After two years of only being struck at a single mint in relatively low numbers, the 1957 Franklin Half Dollar (Buy on eBay) saw production resume at the Denver Mint and an expansion in mintages. The proof version of the coin struck at the Philadelphia Mint was the first proof half dollar to have a mintage above one million. Despite this high mintage, it is less frequently encountered with cameo or deep cameo devices.
Compared to many other years of the series, the circulation strike 1957 and 1957-D Franklin Half Dollars are relatively easier to find in higher grades and with full bell lines. Through grades MS66 FBL, prices remain on the low end compared to similarly graded coins from other years. Many examples for this year will exhibit toning, which can range from dark and obscuring to colorful and attractive.
1957 Franklin Half Dollar Specifications
Designer: John R. Sinnock
Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Weight: 12.50 grams
Diameter: 30.6 mm
Edge: Reeded
1957 Franklin Half Dollar Mintages
1957: 5,114,000
1957-D: 19,966,850
1957 Proof: 1,247,952
