Although it was unknown at the time, the 1962 Franklin Half Dollar (Buy on eBay) would be the second to last year for the series. Coins were produced for circulation at the Philadelphia and Denver Mints with proof coins also produced at Philadelphia.
The circulation strike 1962 Franklin Half Dollar from Philadelphia represents a significant conditional variety of the series. It is the second most difficult issue to find in gem condition with full bell lines, behind the 1953-S. For this issue, the grading companies PCGS and NGC have certified approximately 175 pieces graded MS65 FBL and only 7 pieces graded MS66 FBL. These figures are no doubt inflated by some resubmissions. One of the examples graded PCGS MS66FBL sold for $17,825 at auction in 2004.
The proof coin for this year had the highest mintage for a proof issue of the series at 3,218,019. Although far from common, examples exhibiting cameo or deep cameo contrast for this issue are more frequently encountered.
1962 Franklin Half Dollar Specifications
Designer: John R. Sinnock
Composition: 90% Silver, 10% Copper
Weight: 12.50 grams
Diameter: 30.6 mm
Edge: Reeded
1962 Franklin Half Dollar Mintages
1962: 9,714,000
1962-D: 35,473,281
1962 Pro0f: 3,218
