Rare Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Money

President John F. Kennedy, often referred to as JFK, served as the president of the United States from 1961 to 1963. The U.S. Mint released Kennedy Half Dollars in March of 1964, just a few months after he was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963.

As you can imagine, Kennedy Half Dollar coins hold a special place in American hearts. These historical silver coins stand out among other U.S. coins in the Half Dollar series.

What Are the 5 Rarest Kennedy Half Dollars?

You can still sometimes obtain silver Kennedy half dollars from some banks for face value, but you are unlikely to find them in change. While there are some minor varieties, there are few issues that are extremely rare or expensive.

However, there are some Kennedy Half Dollar coins worth more than face value. Kennedy coin values can be higher than 50 cents depending on the year they were minted and the condition they are in.

Let's discuss Kennedy Half dollars worth money! These are five of the rarest and most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars worth money, along with key dates in the series:

1964 SP68 Special Mint Set

1964 was the year the United States Mint introduced the Kennedy Half Dollar series in both Mint Sets and Proofs. This was also the year all production of 90% silver coins were discontinued due to the rising price of silver.

The 1964 Special Strike Kennedy Half Dollar coins are unique because they’re not supposed to exist. A dozen or so examples have surfaced over the years, and they are the scarcest non-error or variety of Kennedy half dollars in existence.

1964 SMS coins have a special finish that is smooth and satin-like. The fields are usually well-struck, and the edges tend to be square and sharp. You’ll notice the surfaces are non-reflective compared to proof coins from this time.

1967 MS69 Special Mint Set

1967 was the year the United States Mint returned to minting after a short break that began in 1965 due to extreme public hoarding. The Special Mint Sets were produced to appease coin collectors.

The 1967 Kennedy SMS coins are unique in that they were minted without the use of mint marks. These silver coins were stored in hard cases to protect them better, versus the soft plastic cases from 1965.

These rare Kennedy half dollars are composed of 40 percent silver and 60 percent copper-nickel alloy. They were the only circulating denomination that still had silver content.

1967 SMSKennedy Half Dollar coins exhibiting cameo or deep cameo contrast are sought-after by coin collectors.

1964-D MS68

The 1964-D (Regular Strike) Kennedy Half Dollars have a silver content of 90 percent, and only for this one year. In the following years between 1965 and 1970, circulation strike Kennedy Half Dollar coins were made with 40 percent silver.

The Denver Mint half-dollar coins from this year tend to be better struck than the Kennedy Half Dollars from the Philadelphia Mint. There is at least one known example graded in MS68 condition and several MS67 for the 1964-D.

This coin is the finest certified one in the Kennedy series, known for its unique toning and exquisite shades of bright rose, emerald green, yellow, and gold.

1968-S PF70

The 1968-S (Proof) Kennedy Half Dollar was minted at the San Francisco Mint branch with a silver content of 40%. Over three million silver proofs were minted, which was a prominently lower mintage than most of the Kennedy Half Dollar coins.

The silver coin’s obverse depicts aside profile of Kennedy, with an “S'' mint mark just below the portrait. It has a sparkly reflective sheen on the 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar, while Kennedy’s portrait contains a matte finish.

These were the first ever 40 percent silver coins struck as a proof. The San Francisco Mint struck proof sets as a limited edition of this year's coins. Silver proofs are the highest quality U.S. coins, which makes them an excellent addition to your coin collection.

1964 Accented Hair PF68

The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar coin was produced in two varieties: one with accented hair on the portrait of John F. Kennedy and one without the accents on the coin’s obverse portrait.

The accented hair version is believed to be the first design used on Kennedy Half Dollars, with less than five percent 1964 proof coins of this variety. They have been described as “somewhat common,” but you’ll be very lucky to find one in Deep Cameo of this variety.

1964 Kennedy Half Dollars with heavily accented hair are worth a considerable amount more than face value as an uncirculatedproof coin. However, the heavily accented hair variety of this year is a Kennedy Half Dollar worth thousands if you’re lucky enough to have one in a high-grade condition or Deep Cameo.

The History of the Kennedy Half Dollar

The United States Mint first minted the Kennedy Half Dollar in 1964. It was intended as a memorial to the beloved 35th U.S. President, John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated on November 22, 1963.

Congress acted quickly and passed a bill authorizing the new half-dollar coin on December 30, 1963. There had already been discussions of depicting Kennedy on one of the larger U.S. coins, but it was never confirmed whether it would be the silver dollar, half-dollar, or quarter-dollar.

It was the late President’s widow, Jacqueline Kennedy’s request that he be depicted on the half dollar, which would ultimately replace the previous design of Benjamin Franklin. Not surprisingly, the silver coins were hoarded when they were released shortly after his death in March 1964.

Learn more about Kennedy Half Dollars History >

Who Designed the Kennedy Half Dollar?

The coveted Kennedy Half Dollar was designed by the Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint, Gilroy Roberts, and the Assistant Engraver, Frank Gasparro. Gilroy Roberts created the silver coin’s obverse, and Frank Gasparro was responsible for the reverse.

Both of these men met with Kennedy and had their designs approved by Kennedy before his death, but decided to make subtle changes before production. After the Mint produced trial strikes for Mrs. Kennedy’s approval, she suggested the hair be slightly altered.

There was another designer, Seth G. Huntington, who contributed to the design of the Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar. He won a design competition that was open to all American citizens and put on by the Treasury Department.

The reverse of the BicentennialKennedy Half Dollar features a symmetrical view of the front of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. These coins were issued for two years, 1975 and 1976.

Why Are “No FG” Kennedy Half Dollars So Rare?

The “No FG” Kennedy Half Dollar coins are another series popular with coin collectors. These silver coins are unique because they lack the “FG” initials of designer Frank Gasparro on the coin’s reverse.

This variety of half dollar coins came about from heavy die polishing that was intended to remove clash marks. Apparently, some of the Mint employees were overzealous with it and abraded the “FG” initials off the die planchet entirely.

The most exciting characteristic of the “No FG” Kennedy Half Dollar variety is that it can be potentially found on any issue in the series. This makes for a lot of cherry-picking opportunities for patient and keen-eyed coin collectors.

Why Are 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollars So Rare?

People who wanted a memento of the late President held onto these special silver coins instead of using them as legal tender. In response, the U.S. Mint greatly increased production; however, the denomination was seldom seen in circulation.

During this time, the price of silver was increasing, and people continued to hoard them. Many of the earlier Kennedy Half Dollar coins were melted down for their high silver content. Starting in 1965, the Mint reduced the percentage of fine silver from 90 percent to 40 percent (silver clad), but still, the coin saw very little circulation.

How much are Kennedy Half Dollars worth?

The Kennedy half dollar, introduced in 1964 as a tribute to President John F. Kennedy, has seen various rare editions and error coins fetching high prices at auctions. The highest prices are often paid for coins with unique attributes, such as rare mint errors, exceptional grades, or those with historical significance. Here are some of the Kennedy half dollars worth money:

1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof-70 (PR-70)

• The highest grade possible for a coin, indicating it is in perfect condition. A 1964 Kennedy half dollar in PR-70 Deep Cameo condition can fetch tens of thousands of dollars due to its rarity in such pristine condition.

1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar MS-67

• The Denver minted 1964 Kennedy half dollars in MS-67 (Mint State) condition are extremely rare. Prices for coins in this grade have reached over $10,000.

1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar MS-66

• This coin, not released for circulation but only included in mint sets, is rare in high grades. In MS-66 condition, it can command prices upwards of $2,000.

Special Mint Set (SMS) 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars

• These coins, struck with a special finish, are highly sought after. A 1964 SMS Kennedy half dollar, particularly in high grades, can be worth thousands of dollars.

1981-S Type 2 Clear S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar

• The "Clear S" variety from the San Francisco mint is rare and sought after. High-grade examples have sold for over $3,000.

1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar with Double Die Obverse

• Special Mint Set coins with errors are particularly rare. A 1966 SMS Kennedy half dollar with a double die obverse in high grade can fetch significant sums.

2000-P Sacagawea Dollar/2000-P Kennedy Half Dollar Mule

• This error coin features the obverse of a Sacagawea dollar and the reverse of a Kennedy half dollar. Known examples have sold for over $100,000, making it one of the most expensive error coins in U.S. numismatics.

Add Rare Kennedy Half Dollars to Your Collection

At Bullion Shark, we have rare Kennedy Half Dollar coins in stock that will make a beautiful addition to any coin collection. As an experienced coin dealer, we have the best selection of commemorative coins and other collectibles.

Browse our extensive inventory of classic coins, modern coins, and ancient coins, or request advice from one of our top numismatic experts!

Source:

Kennedy Half DollarPrice Guide | PCGS

Kennedy Half Dollar, Bicentennial issue | U.S. Commission of Fine Arts

No FG Kennedy Half Dollars – What Are They & What Are They Worth? | CoinWeek

1964 50C Accented Hair, DCAM (Proof) Kennedy Half Dollar | PCGS CoinFacts

1964 50C SMS (Special Strike) Kennedy Half Dollar | PCGS CoinFacts

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FAQ:

How does the grading process work for Kennedy Half Dollars, and who determines the grade?

The grading process for Kennedy Half Dollars, like other coins, is conducted by professional coin grading services such as the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). These organizations assess a coin's condition based on its luster, strike, flaws, and overall eye appeal. The grade is determined on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 representing a perfect coin without any signs of wear or damage. The grading process involves a detailed examination by expert numismatists using magnification tools to identify even the slightest imperfections. Once graded, coins are encapsulated in a protective holder with a label displaying the grade and relevant information. This standardized grading helps collectors and investors determine the coin's market value and ensures authenticity and condition.

What specific features should collectors look for in Kennedy Half Dollars to identify rare varieties or errors?

For collectors looking to identify rare varieties or errors in Kennedy Half Dollars, there are several features to watch for. These include variations in the mint marks, differences in the portrait details such as the accented hair variety of the 1964 proof coin, and errors like double dies or missing initials. Collectors should also be on the lookout for coins with unusual finishes, such as the Special Mint Set coins, which have a distinctive satin-like appearance. Learning to spot these features requires research and sometimes consultation with numismatic experts. High-quality magnification tools and reference materials, such as official guides and auction records, can also aid in identifying these valuable nuances.

How has the market value of Kennedy Half Dollars changed over time, and what factors influence their current value?

The market value of Kennedy Half Dollars has fluctuated over time due to various factors, including changes in the prices of silver and other metals, collector demand, and the discovery of new varieties or errors. The value of silver content in the coins, especially those minted before 1971, directly impacts their base value. However, collector interest in specific issues, rare varieties, and high-grade examples drive prices well beyond the metal value. The numismatic market trends, economic conditions, and even popular culture can influence collector interest and thus the value of these coins. For instance, significant anniversaries of President Kennedy's life and presidency often spur renewed interest in Kennedy Half Dollars. As with all collectibles, rarity and condition are key determinants of value, with top-grade examples of rare varieties commanding the highest prices in the market.