1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar

By 1970, the Kennedy Half Dollar was still popular, but the US Mint decided to make some changes to production and the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is one of the lowest mintage years. Collectors were only able to purchase the coin in Mint Sets that contained 10 coins. The year 1970 is also the last time that the coin contained any amount of silver. After this mintage, the coin was composed entirely of clad.

1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar History

In November 1963, Kennedy became the fourth president to be assassinated. He was such a popular and historic president that the US Mint had already begun working on a coin design before he died. This work allowed the coin to go into production within just months of his death. 

 

The Mint was exploring the idea of putting Kennedy on the quarter, but Jackie Kennedy chose to have him commemorated on the half dollar because she didn’t want to remove Washington from the quarter. She also asked that the design of his hair be more defined after some initial strikes. 

 

While production of the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar was reduced significantly over previous years, it was still a highly collectible coin that people tended to hoard. As a result, not many of them were in circulation and actually used as currency.

How Much is the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar Worth?

A 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar that is in average condition is worth its face value of fifty cents. However, highly graded versions can go for up to $65. 

 

Year: 1970

Mint Mark: Denver

Total Mintage: 2,150,000

Metal Content: 40% Silver, 60% Copper

Face Value:  Half Dollar

Weight: 11.50 grams

Edge: 150 Reeds

Designer: Gilroy Roberts/Frank Gasparro

Diameter: 30.61 millimeters