Are you thinking about adding Kennedy half dollars to your coin collection? Or perhaps you already have an uncirculated half dollar in your collection that could be worth a significant amount of money?
If so, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a detailed guide on the most valuable Kennedy half dollars, and as you’ll see, while Kennedy half dollars are relatively common and affordable, certain coins can be worth a lot depending on their condition and key dates.
The History of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The U.S. Mint first introduced the Kennedy half dollar in 1964, just months after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. This coin replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar and was originally composed of 90% silver and 10% copper.
However, between 1965 and 1970, the coin’s metal composition was adjusted due to a copper shortage. The coins from this period contained a core made of 79% copper, with an outer layer of 80% silver and 20% copper.
From 1971 onwards, the Kennedy half dollar was produced with a composition of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a pure copper core.
The design of the coin has remained unchanged since its debut in 1964. The obverse features a left-facing portrait of President Kennedy, and the reverse shows a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch in one talon and a bundle of arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and strength.
Minting facilities in San Francisco, Denver, and Philadelphia have produced these coins. In 1964 alone, the U.S. Mint struck approximately 156 million Kennedy half dollars. However, production slowed after 2002, and since then, the Mint has only produced these coins for collectors, typically available at face value.
In 1992, the Mint began striking special proof Kennedy half dollars with 90% silver for collectors, and by 1998, both matte and brilliant proof versions were introduced.
One notable variety of the Kennedy half dollar is the “Accented Hair” variety from 1964. The hair on these early coins is more pronounced, but after Jacqueline Kennedy requested a change, the design was softened. Some of the initial proofs, however, still feature the stronger hair design.
In 2022, after more than two decades, the Federal Reserve instructed the Mint to resume production of Kennedy half dollars for circulation, making them more accessible today. However, the most valuable coins remain the silver Kennedy half dollars struck between 1964 and 1970.
Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
Here are some of the most sought-after Kennedy half dollars that could bring in substantial sums:
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Strike
The 1964 Special Strike Kennedy half dollar is one of the rarest non-error examples in the series. Known for its satiny finish, sharp design details, and lack of contact marks, this coin is distinguished by its exceptional preservation. The Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) has certified only a dozen of these special strikes, making it extremely rare. The most valuable example, graded SP68, was sold for $156,000 at an auction.
2. 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
The Mint began striking proof Kennedy half dollars in 1968, which were produced at the San Francisco Mint. These proofs are of higher quality than the 1964 versions, and deep cameo examples are especially rare. One example of a 1968 deep cameo, graded PF70, was sold for $21,600 at auction in 2017.
3. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
The 1964 proof was the first of its kind in the series, struck at the Philadelphia Mint. These coins are generally of lower quality, but cameo and deep cameo versions are highly sought after by collectors. A 1964 proof graded PF70 fetched $9,400 at auction.
4. 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Accented Hair variety is one of the most famous coins in the series. This design, with a more pronounced hair detail on Kennedy’s head, was only used for a short time before being modified. These coins are rare, with less than 5% of 1964 coins featuring this design. A high-quality example can sell for over $3,000, with deep cameo versions fetching as much as $19,975 at auction.
5. 1976 (D) Kennedy Half Dollar
Although the 1976 D Kennedy half dollar was minted in large quantities, a few high-grade examples have become quite valuable. These coins were struck to commemorate the bicentennial of the United States, and many collectors hoarded them. Coins graded MS67 or higher are particularly rare, and one example sold for $10,000 at auction in 2021.
6. 1971 D Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1971 D Kennedy half dollar is significant because it marks the year when the Mint changed the coin’s metal composition from 90% silver to 40% silver. While these coins are relatively common, higher-grade examples, particularly those graded MS67 or higher, are quite rare. In 2018, a 1971 D half dollar graded MS61 was sold for $13,000.
7. 1969 D Kennedy Half Dollar
Struck with 40% silver, the 1969 D Kennedy half dollar is more common in circulated condition. However, high-grade examples are increasingly rare. Coins graded MS67 or higher can be worth a lot, and a 1969 D coin graded MS67 was sold for $15,600 in 2017, making it one of the most valuable examples from this year.
If you have any of these rare Kennedy half dollars, you could be sitting on a small fortune! The key to maximizing the value of your coins is ensuring they are well-preserved and professionally graded.
FAQs
What makes a Kennedy half dollar valuable?
Value depends on rarity, year, condition, and silver content. High-grade, silver, and rare varieties are more valuable.
How can I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is uncirculated?
Uncirculated coins have sharp details and no signs of wear or damage.
Are all 1964 Kennedy half dollars made of silver?
Yes, 1964 Kennedy half dollars are 90% silver and 10% copper.
Can I still use a Kennedy half dollar for purchases?
Yes, they are legal tender but worth more than face value in many cases.
How do I know if my Kennedy half dollar is a proof?
Proof coins have a mirror-like finish and typically an “S” mint mark.