Are you interested in collecting Kennedy half dollars? Or maybe you have one in mint condition that could be worth a lot of money? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll explore some of the most valuable Kennedy half-dollar coins. While many Kennedy half dollars are common and inexpensive, some rare ones can be worth a fortune due to specific dates and the coin’s condition.
Let’s dive into the history and value of these unique coins!
History of the Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy half dollar was first minted in 1964, shortly after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The coin was designed to honor his legacy and replaced the Benjamin Franklin half dollar. The 1964 coins were made of 90% silver and 10% copper, but due to a silver shortage, the metal composition changed between 1965 and 1970. During this period, coins were made with a 79% copper core and an outer layer consisting of 80% silver and 20% copper.
From 1971 onward, the Kennedy half dollar was made from 75% copper and 25% nickel, with the inner core being pure copper. The design has remained mostly the same, featuring President Kennedy’s left-facing portrait on the front and a heraldic eagle on the back, representing independence. The coins were produced by mints in San Francisco, Denver, and Philadelphia.
In 1992, the U.S. Mint began producing special proof Kennedy half dollars containing 90% silver for collectors. One special variety to note is the “Accented Hair” Kennedy half dollar, minted in 1964. These coins feature a more detailed hairstyle for Kennedy, which was later softened at the request of Jacqueline Kennedy, making the early “Accented Hair” coins quite rare.
The Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
Here are some of the rarest and most valuable Kennedy half dollars worth collecting:
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Strike
The 1964 Special Strike Kennedy half dollar is one of the rarest coins in the series. It has a unique satin-like finish, sharper design details, and exceptionally well-grounded rims. Only a dozen of these special strikes have been certified by the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS). One of the highest-graded examples was sold for an incredible $156,000 at auction.
2. 1968 Kennedy Half-Dollar Proof
In 1968, the Mint began producing proof Kennedy half dollars marked with an “S” to indicate they were made in San Francisco. A deep cameo example graded PF70 (the highest grade) sold for $21,600 in 2017.
3. 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar Proof
The 1964 proof was the first Kennedy half dollar struck. Although the finish is not as high-quality as later proofs, rare examples in higher grades, especially deep cameos, can be valuable. One graded PF70 sold for $9,400.
4. 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar
This variety of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar features more detailed hair above Kennedy’s ear and is highly sought after by collectors. A high-grade example of this coin can fetch up to $3,100, and a deep cameo proof was auctioned for $19,975.
5. 1976 (D) Kennedy Half Dollar
Although the 1976 D Kennedy half dollar was minted in large quantities for the bicentennial year, some rare examples in high grades, like MS67 or above, can be worth a lot. One such coin sold for $10,000 in 2021.
Table: Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
| Coin | Year | Highest Auction Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar Special Strike | 1964 | $156,000 |
| 1968 Kennedy Half-Dollar Proof | 1968 | $21,600 |
| 1964 Kennedy Half-Dollar Proof | 1964 | $9,400 |
| 1964 Accented Hair Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | $19,975 |
| 1976 (D) Kennedy Half Dollar | 1976 | $10,000 |
Conclusion
The Kennedy half dollar holds a special place in American history and coin collecting. Some of these coins, especially the rare varieties from 1964, can be worth a lot of money. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, keeping an eye out for rare dates and high-grade coins could pay off. If you have one of these valuable Kennedy half dollars, it might be time to get it appraised!
FAQ’s
What is the most valuable Kennedy half dollar?
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar special strike is the most valuable, with one example selling for $156,000.
Are Kennedy half dollars still being minted?
Yes, but they are mostly produced for collectors. In 2022, the Federal Reserve ordered more Kennedy half dollars for circulation.
How can I tell if I have an Accented Hair Kennedy half dollar?
Look for extra detailed hair above Kennedy’s ear and the missing serif on the letter “I” in “LIBERTY” on the coin.