Are you a collector looking to add valuable coins like the Kennedy half dollar to your collection? Maybe you have a special uncirculated half-dollar worth more than you think! Look no further, as we’ve put together a guide on the most valuable Kennedy half dollars. While these coins are generally common and affordable, there are a few rare editions that can be worth a significant amount depending on the year, minting facility, and condition of the coin.
History of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The U.S. Mint began producing the Kennedy half dollar in 1964, just months after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Replacing the Benjamin Franklin half dollar, the Kennedy coin was originally made of 90% silver and 10% copper. From 1965 to 1970, due to a copper shortage, the composition changed, with coins containing 79% copper and 20% silver. Starting in 1971, the coin was composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, with a pure copper core.
The coin’s design has remained unchanged, featuring a left-facing portrait of President Kennedy on the obverse, and an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows on the reverse. These coins were minted at Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco facilities, with over 156 million struck in 1964 alone. Since 2002, Kennedy half dollars have only been minted for collectors, though regular production resumed in 2022 for circulation.
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is particularly famous for a variation called “Accented Hair,” where Kennedy’s hair is sharply defined. After Jacqueline Kennedy requested a softer design, the mint altered the coin, making the original variant even more sought after.
Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Strike
The 1964 Special Strike is the rarest non-error coin in the Kennedy half-dollar series, known for its satiny finish and sharp details. Unlike regular proofs, it has a matte appearance. Only a few have been certified, and the most expensive example, graded SP68, sold for $156,000.
2. 1968 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
Produced at the San Francisco Mint, the 1968 proof coins are prized for their superior quality compared to earlier examples. Rare deep cameo versions can fetch substantial amounts, with one such coin selling for $21,600 in 2017.
3. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Proof
The 1964 proof was the first in the series, produced in Philadelphia with a less polished finish. However, deep cameo examples are highly sought after. One such coin, graded PF70, was auctioned for $9,400.
4. 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar
The Accented Hair version is notable for its unique hair design above Kennedy’s ear. Struck only in 1964, this variety is rare, with high-grade proofs fetching significant prices. A PF68 deep cameo example sold for $19,975.
5. 1976 (D) Kennedy Half Dollar
Although most 1976 D half dollars are common, those graded MS67 or higher are incredibly rare. The 1976 D coin is a one-year issue, and one sold for $10,000 in 2021.
6. 1971 D Kennedy Half Dollar
Following the composition change in 1971, these coins are scarce in high grades. With fewer than 500 examples graded MS67, the value of these coins begins to rise, and an MS61 coin sold for $13,000 in 2018.
7. 1969 D Kennedy Half Dollar
Like other silver Kennedy half dollars minted between 1965 and 1970, the 1969 D half dollar is relatively common in circulated condition. However, high-grade MS67 examples can be extremely valuable. One sold for $15,600 in 2017.
FAQs:
What makes a Kennedy half dollar more valuable?
Coins with lower mintage, rare features like deep cameo finishes, and high grades are more valuable than standard circulation examples.
How can I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is worth something?
Look for special characteristics like proof finishes, the mint mark, or rarity in higher grades. Professional grading can provide value insights.
Are all 1964 Kennedy half dollars valuable?
Not all are valuable, but the 1964 special strike and accented hair versions, along with high-grade proofs, are highly sought after.
Why are some Kennedy half dollars worth more than others?
Factors like rarity, condition, special features, and the year of minting contribute to the higher value of certain Kennedy half dollars.