Kennedy Half Dollars

The Kennedy half dollar, struck since 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy who was assassinated on November 22, 1963, have not been issued for circulation since 2002. Since that time, the coins have been sold in rolls and bags at a premium by the U.S. Mint, allowing collectors to keep their sets up to date and making the series one of the longest running ones in our history.

Composition and Minting History

Kennedy half dollars were issued in 90% silver only for the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (except for Proof versions) then in 40% silver from 1965 to 1970 and in copper-nickel (which consists of an outer layer of copper-nickel bonded to an inner core of pure copper) since then.

1964 Kennedy Half Dollar:

• Minted with 90% silver, the inaugural Kennedy half dollar is prized for its high silver content, making it a collector favorite.

1965–1970 Kennedy Half Dollars:

• These coins were issued with 40% silver content, making them a more affordable way for collectors to own silver while retaining a connection to President Kennedy's legacy.

Post-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars:

• Since 1971, Kennedy half dollars have been made from a copper-nickel composition (an outer layer of copper-nickel bonded to a pure copper core). These are not as valuable for their metal content but hold appeal for their design and collectible value.

Kennedy Half Dollars in Circulation

Although half dollars haven’t been officially issued for circulation since 2002, reports have emerged of Kennedy Half Dollars being found in general circulation again. These reports, particularly from Western states, suggest that 2021-D and 2020-D Kennedy halves are surfacing in bank-wrapped rolls labeled “$10 Halves.” Some speculate that the Federal Reserve may have placed orders for circulation-quality Kennedy half dollars to alleviate coin shortages during the pandemic, although the details are still unclear.

Mintage and Availability

Recent Mintages:

• The mintage of Kennedy half dollars has fluctuated over the years. For example, in 2018, mintage levels rose to 6.1 million for Denver coins and 4.8 million for Philadelphia coins, a significant increase compared to previous years. By 2021, the mintage ramped up further, with 7.7 million Denver-minted coins and 5.1 million Philadelphia-minted coins produced by mid-year.

Collecting Strategies for Kennedy Half Dollars

1. Silver Kennedy Half Dollars (1964-1970)

• These are the most valuable in terms of their silver content. Completing a set of these coins can offer both historical significance and intrinsic value due to the rising price of silver.

2. Complete Date and Mintmark Sets

• Collectors who aim to gather one coin from every year and mintmark (P for Philadelphia, D for Denver) since 1964 will face the challenge of acquiring both silver and clad coins.

3. Graded Coins

• High-grade Kennedy half dollars are sought after, especially those graded MS (Mint State) or PF (Proof) by third-party grading companies like PCGS or NGC. A complete set of high-grade Kennedy half dollars can be a valuable collection.

4. Error Coins

• Kennedy halves with minting errors (e.g., off-center strikes or doubled dies) are highly collectible and can add intrigue and value to a collection.

Recent Developments: Circulation-Quality Half Dollars

In 2021, collectors began reporting the presence of circulation-quality 2021-D Kennedy Half Dollars in bank rolls, particularly in Western states. This phenomenon puzzled many in the numismatic community, as the U.S. Mint had not announced a return of these coins to general circulation. Some believe the Federal Reserve ordered these coins due to the pandemic-related coin shortage, while others think that collectors inadvertently sparked demand by requesting them from banks.

Top Kennedy Half Dollars in Demand

1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar (90% silver) – The only year with 90% silver content, highly sought after by both collectors and investors.
2. 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars (40% silver) – These coins are valued for their silver content and relatively low mintage compared to modern coins.
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar – A key date in the series, as it was the last year silver was used and was issued only in mint sets, making it harder to find in circulation.
4. 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar – This low-mintage coin (62,000 minted) was part of a special mint set, making it a top collectible.
5. 2014-W 50th Anniversary Kennedy Gold Proof – Issued in honor of the coin’s 50th anniversary, this coin is struck in ¾ oz. of 24-karat gold, making it a prized item for serious collectors.

FAQ

1. Why are Kennedy Half Dollars no longer issued for circulation?

• Since 2002, Kennedy half dollars have been minted only for collectors. The coin saw little demand in circulation, and the U.S. Mint chose to focus on producing the coins for numismatic sales.

2. Are Kennedy Half Dollars made of silver?

• Only Kennedy half dollars minted from 1964 to 1970 contain silver. The 1964 coins are 90% silver, while coins from 1965 to 1970 contain 40% silver. Since 1971, Kennedy half dollars have been made from copper-nickel.

3. Can you find Kennedy Half Dollars in circulation today?

• It is rare, but possible. Although not issued for circulation since 2002, some collectors report finding Kennedy half dollars in circulation, especially in bank rolls.

4. How much is a Kennedy Half Dollar worth?

• The value depends on the coin’s year, condition, and whether it contains silver. Silver Kennedy half dollars are worth more than their face value due to their metal content. Coins from 1971 onward are typically worth face value unless they are in pristine condition or have errors.

5. What are some key dates in the Kennedy Half Dollar series?

• Key dates include the 1964 silver half dollars, the 1970-D (last 40% silver coin), and the 1998-S Matte Proof. Collectors also seek out low-mintage and high-grade coins.

The Kennedy Half Dollar remains an iconic and widely collected U.S. coin. From silver content to clad issues, error coins, and special releases, there are numerous ways to build a rewarding collection of these half dollars. Whether you’re hunting for silver treasures or keeping up with modern releases, the Kennedy Half Dollar offers something for every collector.