The world of coin collecting is full of fascinating finds, and one coin that has collectors buzzing is the “Bugs Bunny” Franklin Half Dollar. This unique coin, known for its comical resemblance to the famous cartoon character Bugs Bunny, was the result of a minting error at the U.S. Mint.
If you’re lucky enough to have one of these coins lying around, it could be worth up to $5,000! Here’s everything you need to know to find out if you have this valuable piece of history in your collection.
What is the Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar?
The Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar was created due to a minting error that resulted in Benjamin Franklin appearing to have buck teeth, resembling the famous cartoon character.
This error occurred when the die, used to strike the coin, became damaged. Specifically, the wings of the eagle on the reverse side of the coin caused a dent near Franklin’s mouth, giving him the “buck-tooth” look.
The coin was designed by John R. Sinnock and minted from 1948 to 1963, with Franklin’s profile on the obverse side and the Liberty Bell on the reverse side. These coins were struck in 90% silver, which adds to their intrinsic value, even without the error.
History of the Coin
The Bugs Bunny variety was first discovered on coins minted in 1955, with subsequent sightings on 1956 coins. While the error appeared across several years, the 1955 version is considered the most desirable due to its lower mintage numbers.
The 1955 Franklin Half Dollar had the lowest mintage in the series, with only 48,200 coins struck, making it rarer than other years. The value of this coin varies significantly depending on its condition, with uncirculated versions fetching up to $1,950 and Full Bell Line examples reaching as much as $5,000.
How the Error Occurred
The error happened during the minting process when the die became damaged. The wings of the eagle, imprinted on the reverse side of the coin, slightly pressed into the obverse die, which distorted Franklin’s mouth.
This damage caused Franklin to appear as though he had buck teeth, resulting in the coin being affectionately called the “Bugs Bunny” Franklin Half Dollar.
This error is not incredibly rare, but it is highly sought after by collectors due to its unique appearance and connection to the popular Looney Tunes character, Bugs Bunny.
Value of the Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar
The value of a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar depends on several factors, including the year, condition, and whether it has the Full Bell Lines. Full Bell Lines refer to the clear, crisp lines visible on the Liberty Bell depicted on the reverse of the coin. Coins with these well-defined lines are more valuable.
- 1955 Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar:
- Good condition: $50-$100
- Uncirculated: $1,950
- Full Bell Lines: Up to $5,000
- 1956 Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar:
- Good condition: $65-$130
- Uncirculated: Similar to 1955 but slightly lower
How to Identify a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar
If you think you may have a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar in your collection, here’s what to look for:
- Examine Franklin’s Mouth: Look closely at Franklin’s profile, particularly his mouth. If you notice what looks like buck teeth or a small spike near the mouth, you may have a Bugs Bunny variety.
- Check the Dates: The most valuable examples are from 1955 and 1956, although the error occurred in other years as well. The 1955 version is the rarest and most valuable due to its low mintage.
- Full Bell Lines: Turn the coin over and inspect the Liberty Bell on the reverse. If the lines at the bottom of the bell are crisp and uninterrupted, your coin could be worth significantly more.
| Year | Condition | Value Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1955 | Good Condition | $50 – $100 |
| 1955 | Uncirculated | Up to $1,950 |
| 1955 | Full Bell Lines | Up to $5,000 |
| 1956 | Good Condition | $65 – $130 |
| 1956 | Uncirculated | Slightly lower than 1955 |
How to Sell Your Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar
If you discover that you have a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar, the next step is determining its value and finding the right buyer. Here’s what you should do:
- Get it Appraised: Take your coin to a professional coin appraiser or dealer for an accurate valuation. Be sure to mention the Bugs Bunny variety.
- Check Condition: The value will depend on the condition of the coin. Uncirculated and Full Bell Line examples are worth the most.
- Sell through Trusted Channels: Consider selling your coin through reputable coin shops, auction houses, or online platforms like eBay or Heritage Auctions. Always check buyer ratings and reviews before committing to a sale.
Conclusion
The Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar is a fun and valuable find for coin collectors. Although the error is relatively common, its uniqueness and ties to pop culture make it a coveted piece.
Whether you’re a casual collector or just happened to find one in your change, it’s worth checking if you have this coin that could be worth up to $5,000.
Take your time to examine the features of the coin, especially the tell-tale “buck teeth,” and get it appraised to determine its true value.
FAQs
1. How much is a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar worth?
The value can range from $50 in good condition to $5,000 for uncirculated versions with Full Bell Lines.
2. What years feature the Bugs Bunny error on the Franklin Half Dollar?
The most notable years are 1955 and 1956, although the error occurred sporadically in other years as well.
3. How can I tell if my Franklin Half Dollar is the Bugs Bunny variety?
Look for a small spike near Franklin’s mouth that gives the appearance of buck teeth.
4. Are all Franklin Half Dollars valuable?
Not all are valuable. Only those with minting errors like the Bugs Bunny variety or those in pristine condition with Full Bell Lines command higher prices.
5. Where can I sell my Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar?
You can sell it through reputable coin shops, auctions, or online platforms. Be sure to get it appraised first to understand its value.
References
- GR Coins. “Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar.”
- Wealthy Nickel. “11 Quarters That Are Worth Serious Money.”
- El Adelantado. “The Rarest 25-Cent Coin You Can Make A Lot of Money On.”
- The Premier Daily. “There’s a 25-Cent Coin Worth Over $5 Million. Here’s How to Recognize It.”