The Kennedy Half Dollar value varies greatly depending on factors like its year, mint mark, and condition. Coins minted in 1964 are especially sought after because they contain 90% silver, making them valuable for both collectors and investors. Other key dates, like the 1970-D or special proofs, can fetch higher prices. To determine the value of your Kennedy Half Dollar, examine its condition and look for rare varieties or errors. Collectors often treasure these coins for their historical significance and beauty. Understanding the Kennedy Half Dollar value is essential for assessing your collection or making smart buying decisions.
The Kennedy Half Dollar holds a special place in the hearts of Americans and coin collectors alike. Introduced in 1964 to honor the late President John F. Kennedy, this iconic coin is a poignant reminder of a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Over the decades, it has become a favorite among numismatists for its historical significance, unique design, and intriguing variations. This article explores the Kennedy Half Dollar Value, history, design and answers why they remain a sought after collectible.
A Brief History of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy Half Dollar was conceived shortly after President Kennedy’s assassination in November 1963. To commemorate his legacy, the U.S. Mint fast-tracked the design and production of the coin, which replaced the Franklin Half Dollar. Designed by Gilroy Roberts (obverse) and Frank Gasparro (reverse), the coin features a striking portrait of Kennedy on the obverse and the Presidential Seal on the reverse.
The first Kennedy Half Dollars were struck in 1964 and contained 90% silver. However, as the demand for silver grew and the cost of production increased, the Mint reduced the silver content to 40% for coins minted between 1965 and 1970. Starting in 1971, the coin’s composition transitioned to copper-nickel clad, making silver Kennedy Half Dollars even more desirable to collectors.
Key Dates and Varieties
Several Kennedy Half Dollars are especially noteworthy for their rarity, errors, and unique characteristics:
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1964 Kennedy Half Dollar: The inaugural issue, struck in 90% silver, is highly sought after, especially in uncirculated and proof condition.
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1964 Accented Hair Variety: This early proof coin features additional detail in Kennedy’s hair and is a prized find for collectors.
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1965-1970 40% Silver Coins: These are the last Kennedy Half Dollars containing silver, making them popular for their intrinsic metal value and historical significance.
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1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar: This coin was only included in mint sets, making it relatively scarce.
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1998-S Matte Proof: Issued in limited numbers as part of the Kennedy Collector’s Set, this coin is a modern rarity.
Determining the Value of Kennedy Half Dollars
The value of a Kennedy Half Dollar depends on factors such as its date, mintmark, condition, and silver content. Here’s a breakdown:
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Silver Content: Coins minted between 1964 and 1970 are of particular interest to bullion investors due to their silver composition. The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, containing approximately 0.3617 troy ounces of silver, often trades at a premium over its melt value.
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Condition: Coins in mint-state or proof condition command higher prices. Graded coins with high MS (Mint State) or PR (Proof) designations are especially valuable.
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Rarity and Errors: Varieties such as the 1964 Accented Hair or error coins (e.g., doubled die obverse) can fetch significant premiums.
| Key Dates | Average Value (Circulated) | Average Value (Uncirculated) | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 | $12-$15 | $20-$40 | 90% silver content |
| 1965-1970 | $4-$7 | $10-$20 | 40% silver content |
| 1970-D | $20-$30 | $50-$100 | Mint set exclusive |
| 1998-S Matte | $300-$500 | $700-$1,000 | Limited issue |
Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars
Kennedy Half Dollars are an accessible and rewarding series for collectors of all experience levels. Beginners can start with circulated coins found in pocket change or rolls from banks, while seasoned numismatists may seek out rare varieties, high-grade proofs, and error coins.
For those focused on silver content, assembling a set of 1964-1970 coins offers both historical and intrinsic value. Collectors interested in modern coins can explore low-mintage proof and special-issue coins, which often feature stunning finishes and detailed designs.
Kennedy Half Dollar Design
The obverse design of the Kennedy Half Dollar featured our late President John F. Kennedy, with the word “Liberty” arched over him, and the phrase “In God we trust” underneath him. The reverse of the coin contained the presidential seal surrounded by UNITED STATES OF AMERICA”, and underneath the seal stated “HALF DOLLAR”. The Kennedy Half Dollar was designed by Frank Gasparo.
The Kennedy Half Dollar was minted in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and was only minted in West Point in 2014. The original mintage year of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar was the only year to have coins minted with a 90% silver content. Thereafter, from 1965 through 1970 the coin contained only 40% silver content. Finally, after 1970 the Kennedy Half Dollar became completely clad, meaning there was no silver content at all. However, there are some exceptions of special Kennedy Half Dollars that have been minted that do have some silver content.
The most common way people collect Kennedy Half Dollars are in rolls. More often then not, collectors buy the rolls of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars in brilliant uncirculated condition. 20 coins typically come in each one of these rolls. A fan favorite amongst the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are the rolls of the Denver Mint marks. The Denver 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is half the mintage of the Philadelphia version, making it more scarce. Another way collectors buy Kennedy Half Dollars is individually to complete a album or the entire album at once. Furthermore, collectors appreciate the Kennedy Half Dollar because it is a inexpensive set to complete. A complete set of brilliant uncirculated Kennedy Half Dollars and Proof Kennedy Half Dollars can be completed for around $1,500 for almost 200 coins.
Kennedy Half Dollar Mintages and Values
| Date | Mintage | MS-60 | MS-63 | MS-65 | PF-65 | |
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar | 273,304,004 | $11.00 | $12.00 | $24.00 | $20.00 | |
| 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 156,205,446 | $11.00 | $12.00 | $26.00 | N/A | |
| 1965 Kennedy Half Dollar | 65,879,366 | N/A | $6.00 | $30.00 | N/A | |
| 1966 Kennedy Half Dollar | 108,984,932 | N/A | $6.00 | $35.00 | N/A | |
| 1967 Kennedy Half Dollar | 295,046,978 | N/A | $6.00 | $33.00 | N/A | |
| 1968-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 546,951,930 | N/A | $6.00 | $18.00 | N/A | |
| 1968-S Kennedy Half Dollar | 3,041,506 | N/A | N/A | N/A | $8.00 | |
| 1969-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 129,881,800 | N/A | $6.00 | $30.00 | N/A | |
| 1969-S Kennedy Half Dollar | 2,934,631 | N/A | N/A | N/A | $8.00 | |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 2,150,000 | N/A | $20.00 | $45.00 | N/A | |
| 1970-S Kennedy Half Dollar | 2,632,810 | N/A | N/A | N/A | $15.00 | |
*Source 2020 Red Book