What is the value of a 1959 US half dollar?

Answer 1

1959 is not a rare year for Franklin halves. All of them are 90% silver. In average condition their retail value is about 0.36 X the current price of silver; a metal dealer will pay less.

Look on the back of the coin to see if there's a small mint mark letter just above the Liberty Bell. It may be blank or there may be a D.

Numismedia lists the following approximate retail values as of 03/2012:

No mint mark (Philadelphia):

$19.20 to $5850.00 depending on quality

"D" mint mark (Denver):

$19.20 to $1090.00

DISCLAIMER: The retail values quoted are the best available as of the date shown, but may vary significantly due to changes in the precious metals market. Also the wholesale (buying) price of a coin will be less than the selling (retail) price. A reputable coin dealer will be able to give a more accurate valuation based on inspection of the coin.