1961 Benjamin Frankliln Half Dollar - Grade & Value

[nwcleaningllc]

I found this 1961 Benjamin Franklin Half Dollar while coin roll hunting today. I'm looking to see what you guys might think the value is and also the grade. It also looks to be proof, do you agree?

 

[dejapooh]

It could be proof. It's hard to tell from pictures, but if it is, it is a VERY low grade proof. Maybe an PR-AU, or even a PR, EX. There seems to be quite some rub on his cheek, and a lot of marks in the field. If that is the case, I would expect a value of $8 to $15. Silver melt is about $6.45.

In my experience there is not much of a market for a low grade proof. There are enough nice ones out there to satisfy demand.

 

[CC-Hunter]

It's a proof, and I agree with everything said above.

 

[Emperor Findus Cladius]

Since it has been in circulation (you can easily see all the bag marks), it is now what they call an impaired proof. These really do not demand much premium, if any. You might get over melt from someone who wants one to fill in a space on their folder, but otherwise all you could reasonably expect for it is melt. I have found two, and they are both in my junk/melt rolls.