You may have this 50-cent coin worth up to $5,000 hanging around your house – Here’s the 1955 Franklin “Bugs Bunny” half dollar

The 1955 Franklin “Bugs Bunny” half dollar is a unique coin that stands out because of a minting error which gave Benjamin Franklin a buck-toothed appearance, similar to the famous cartoon character Bugs Bunny. This half dollar was minted as part of the Franklin Half Dollar series, produced between 1948 and 1963. The coin was designed by John R. Sinnock, and shows Franklin’s profile on the front and Liberty Bell at the back.

The coin is considered valuable because of the error which happened during its minting process. The eagle’s wings on the die cut into the area around Franklin’s mouth, making it look like a buck tooth. Eventually, it became known as the Bug’s Bunny and its look made it appealing to most coin collectors.

Why is the 1955 bug bunny half dollar worth so much?

The value of the 1955 Franklin “Bugs Bunny” half dollar is because of how rare it is to find the coin and most importantly, the condition of the coin. While the number of mints are few, with only 48,200 coins struck, its true value is based on its unusual minting error.

Some versions of the coin are yet to be circulated, especially those with the “Full Bell Line” (FBL) designation, which are more valuable. The FBL designation refers to the Liberty Bell on the back of the coin showing clear, full lines, which is a sign of a well-struck coin. A Bugs Bunny Franklin half dollar which has never been circulated and is in good condition can be worth between $1,950 and $5,000.

If it’s just in good condition alone, the coin will be worth much less, probably between $50 to $100 for the 1955 version. But, even when the coin is not in the best of conditions, the history of the coin makes it more appealing to coin collectors. 

How to spot a Bugs Bunny half dollar?

Wondering if you have one of these valuable coins at home? Here are some tips for spotting the Bugs Bunny Franklin half dollar:

• Look for the year: The 1955 and 1956 Franklin half dollars are the most well-known examples of the Bugs Bunny error. Check the date on your coin to see if it falls within this range.
• Examine Franklin’s mouth: The key feature of this coin is Franklin’s buck tooth-like appearance. Inspect the area around his mouth for any protruding marks that resemble buck teeth.
• Check the liberty bell: For valuable versions of the coin, the Liberty Bell on the back should have clear, full lines. This FBL designation is what drives the price of the coin to the higher end.

If your coin has all these criteria, then you may be living with a hidden treasure.

How much could your 1955 Franklin half dollar be worth?

The value of your coin will depend mostly on its condition and whether it is an FBL or not. Here is a list of possible values you can expect:

• Uncirculated FBL versions: As much as $5,000
• Uncirculated (without FBL): about $1,950
• In a good condition: $50 to $100
• Versions with the year 1956: $65 to $130

The Franklin half dollar of 1955 is perhaps the most valued, however, the 1956 version can also be considered valuable although it is not so expensive.

This beautiful-looking coin may look just like another half dollar at a glance, but on a close look, you may have an historical piece concealed within your house.

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