Franklin Half Set Vs. Stacking

In the face of Philharmonics Britainuas or Maple Leafs, it only makes some sense if you are able to pick through a silver junk box of 100 or more examples of Franklins and pick out the best of them, to make a date set at 22X face.

Nevertheless, you need to be picky in terms of condition, at the lower grades.
Probably best to go through this sort of exercise at a coin show, where the cost of the journey to get there, is less of a consideration

I agree. I would have walked away at 22xFV as well. I do not know where you are located, but availability to LCS's does not sound to local.
I am fortunate to live in a location that offers dozens of LCS's within a 45 minute drive. I purchased the same day you did and found a range between $19.50-22.25 x FV. I opted for 20x as I was 5 minutes away.
The premiums are way up, agreed. But @ $20xFV I got some US silver about the same price as the Brits, Canadians, and at the same time look for fillers.
I wish someone could show me where I can buy for melt price. Those days are gone. Dealers cannot purchase for under melt today. There ain't enough for that no more.