Are you thinking about adding Kennedy half dollars to your coin collection? Do you have an uncirculated half-dollar that could be worth some good money? You’ve come to the right place!
This article lists the most valuable Kennedy half dollars. You’ll see that while Kennedy fifty-cent coins are common and inexpensive, some can be worth a fortune based on their dates and condition. Let’s dive in!
History of The Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy half dollar was first minted in 1964, just a few months after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated. This coin replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar and was made from 90% silver and 10% copper.
Changes in Metal Composition
From 1965 to 1970, the mint changed the metal composition to 79% copper and an outer layer of 80% silver and 20% copper due to a copper shortage. Since 1971, half dollars have been made of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with an inner core of pure copper.
Design Features
The design of the Kennedy half dollar has remained unchanged since its introduction in 1964. The front features President Kennedy’s portrait, while the back displays a heraldic eagle holding an olive branch and a bunch of arrows.
Production Details
- The Kennedy half dollars were minted in San Francisco, Denver, and Philadelphia.
- In 1964 alone, around 156 million half dollars were produced.
- From 2002, the Mint only made Kennedy dollars for collectors, available at face value.
Special Features
A notable variety is the “Accented Hair” struck in 1964, which features deeply defined hair. After Jacqueline Kennedy requested a softer design, some proof coins were already made with the original style.
In 2022, the Federal Reserve ordered the Mint to produce more Kennedy coins for circulation. However, the most valuable ones are still the silver Kennedy half dollars from 1964 to 1970.
Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollar Coins
Here’s a table showing the most valuable Kennedy half dollar coins:
| Coin | Year | Mint Mark | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Special Strike | 1964 | None | $156,000 | Rare non-error coin with a satiny finish, sharp details, and no contact marks. |
| Proof | 1968 | S | $21,600 | High-quality coin with deep cameo examples being rare. |
| Proof | 1964 | None | $9,400 | First proof in the series; cameo examples are rare. |
| Accented Hair | 1964 | None | $19,975 | Features extra hair above the ear and was struck for one year only. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1976 | D | $10,000 | Bicentennial year coin; rare in higher grades. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1971 | D | $13,000 | Significant year for the metal change; rare in high grades. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1969 | D | $15,600 | Reduced silver content; rare in higher grades. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1966 | P | $15,100 | One of the lowest mintages in the silver-clad series. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1977 | None | $9,200 | Improved quality, rare in MS68 and above. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | D | $7,495 | Last year for business strike Kennedy half dollars in silver. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | S | $7,475 | Rare proof coin; last year for silver proof in the series. |
| Kennedy Half Dollar | 1980 | D | $49,835 | Hard to find in MS67 and above, high-quality examples are rare. |
| Bicentennial Half Dollar | 1976 | S | $9,600 | Celebrated 200 years of independence; rare in MS69. |
Conclusion
Collecting Kennedy half dollars can be a rewarding hobby, especially if you discover rare and valuable coins in your collection. The 1964 Special Strike Kennedy half dollar is the rarest and most valuable coin, selling for an astonishing $156,000! Many other coins from this series can also be worth a good amount, depending on their condition and rarity.
If you’re lucky enough to have one of these valuable coins, it could be a great addition to your collection or a valuable investment.
FAQs
What is the history behind the Kennedy half dollar?
The Kennedy half dollar was first minted in 1964, shortly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. It replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar and was initially made from 90% silver. The design features Kennedy’s portrait on the front and a heraldic eagle on the back.
How can I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is valuable?
The value of a Kennedy half dollar depends on its year, mint mark, condition, and rarity. Look for coins with a high grade (MS67 or higher), special features (like the Accented Hair variety), or low mintage.
What is the most valuable Kennedy half dollar?
The most valuable Kennedy half dollar is the 1964 Special Strike coin, which can sell for up to $156,000 due to its rarity and unique characteristics.
Are all Kennedy half dollars made of silver?
No, not all Kennedy half dollars are made of silver. The coins minted from 1965 to 1970 contain 40% silver, while those produced from 1971 onward are made of copper and nickel with no silver content.