Collectors and coin enthusiasts love a good story behind rare finds, and the ‘Bugs Bunny’ Franklin Half Dollar is one of those stories. This special coin gets its quirky name due to a minting error that makes Benjamin Franklin look like he has buck teeth — similar to Bugs Bunny. If you find one, it could be worth thousands!
The Franklin Half Dollar, first minted in 1948, is a popular piece among collectors for its patriotic design and historical significance.
The coin shows a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on one side and the Liberty Bell on the other. But what makes the ‘Bugs Bunny’ version so interesting is a unique error on the coin that resembles Franklin with a comical buck-toothed smile.
Why the Bugs Bunny Name?
The name ‘Bugs Bunny’ Franklin Half Dollar came about due to a mistake at the U.S. Mint. A die clash (a printing error where the designs on the front and back of the coin overlap slightly) caused a funny, toothy appearance on Franklin’s face, giving him a Bugs Bunny-like grin.
This error was caused when the design from the eagle’s wings on the back of the coin was imprinted on Franklin’s mouth area, leaving a spike-like detail that looks like buck teeth.
Key Dates for the Bugs Bunny Error
This error didn’t happen on just one coin. The Bugs Bunny effect is found on multiple Franklin Half Dollar coins minted between 1948 and 1963.
However, coins from 1955 and 1956 are the most famous examples, especially since Bugs Bunny, the cartoon character, was also growing in popularity at this time. The 1955 Franklin Half Dollar is particularly valuable since it had the lowest production of the series with only 48,200 coins made.
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How Much Is It Worth?
The value of a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar depends on its condition. Here’s a breakdown of what collectors might pay for a Bugs Bunny Half Dollar:
- 1955 Bugs Bunny Half Dollar: If you have one in top, uncirculated condition, it could be worth up to $5,000. Average circulated versions might fetch around $50 to $100.
- 1956 Bugs Bunny Half Dollar: These coins usually sell for $65 to $130 in good condition, with higher values for coins in better shape.
The unique ‘Bugs Bunny’ look on these coins makes them appealing to collectors, but it’s important to note that while valuable, they aren’t as rare as some other error coins. Still, even an average-condition Bugs Bunny coin is worth more than a regular Franklin Half Dollar of the same year.
How To Check if You Have a Bugs Bunny Franklin Half-Dollar?
If you want to see if your Franklin Half Dollar has this error, check Franklin’s mouth area on the coin. Look for any unusual, tooth-like markings on the portrait. The ‘buck teeth’ should be visible as a small, pointed detail, especially if you have a magnifying glass handy.
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Why Franklin Half Dollars Are Already Valuable?
All Franklin Half Dollars have value because they’re made from 90% silver, which gives them a basic melt value even if they aren’t rare or collectible. Plus, Franklin Half Dollars are beloved for their historical connection to Benjamin Franklin, a founding father who is also on the $100 bill.
Coins with the Bugs Bunny error add an extra level of interest, combining silver content with a unique, collectible quality.
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The Bugs Bunny Franklin Half Dollar stands out for its amusing appearance and interesting backstory. If you find one in your coin collection, it might just bring you a smile and some extra cash. Happy collecting!