The Kennedy Half Dollar is more than just a coin—it’s a piece of history. First introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy after his assassination, this coin has captured the hearts of collectors and history enthusiasts alike. Over the years, several fascinating stories have emerged about this iconic coin. From rare variations to historic moments, these tales make the Kennedy Half Dollar much more than just a simple currency.
1. The Tragic Inspiration for the Coin
The Kennedy Half Dollar was quickly created after President Kennedy’s tragic assassination in 1963. The U.S. Mint decided to honor the fallen president with a coin, and within months, the first Kennedy Half Dollar was minted in 1964. The speed with which it was produced reflected the national sentiment of loss and the desire to memorialize Kennedy.
2. The 90% Silver Coins of 1964
The first year of Kennedy Half Dollars, minted in 1964, contained 90% silver, making them highly sought after by collectors. After that year, silver content in the coins was reduced to 40%, and after 1970, the coins contained no silver at all. The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar, therefore, remains one of the most valuable in the series.
| Year | Silver Content | Estimated Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1964 | 90% Silver | $10 – $50 |
| 1965-1970 | 40% Silver | $5 – $15 |
| Post-1970 | No Silver | Face value – $3 |
3. The Accented Hair Design
One of the rarest variations of the Kennedy Half Dollar is the 1964 “Accented Hair” proof. This coin features a unique hair design above Kennedy’s ear that was later modified. Only a small number of these coins were made, making them highly valuable and desirable among collectors.
4. The 1970-D Last Silver Coin
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar is significant because it was the last U.S. coin to contain any silver (40%). These coins were not released into general circulation but were instead included in special mint sets. This makes the 1970-D edition a rare find.
5. The Rare Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar
In 1976, to celebrate the United States Bicentennial, the Kennedy Half Dollar received a special redesign. The coin’s reverse featured an image of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. While these coins were made in large quantities, some versions struck in silver are much rarer and valuable.
6. Minting Errors and Their Value
Like many coins, some Kennedy Half Dollars were struck with errors, such as double strikes, off-center images, or missing mint marks. These error coins are rare and highly collectible, with some fetching hundreds or even thousands of dollars at auction.
Conclusion
The Kennedy Half Dollar holds not only historical value but also unique stories and rare variations that make it a favorite among collectors. Whether you’re intrigued by the silver content, the rare Accented Hair design, or the Bicentennial version, this coin continues to fascinate people. Next time you come across a Kennedy Half Dollar, take a moment to appreciate its history—you might just have a valuable piece of the past in your hands.
FAQ’s
Why are 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars special?
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were made with 90% silver, making them more valuable than later editions.
What is the Accented Hair design on the Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1964 “Accented Hair” proof is a rare variation of the coin with a distinct hair design above Kennedy’s ear, which was later changed.
What makes the 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
It was the last Kennedy Half Dollar to contain silver, and it wasn’t released for circulation, making it rare.
Are Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollars worth more?
Some silver versions of the 1976 Bicentennial Kennedy Half Dollar are rare and more valuable to collectors.