Kennedy half dollars were first released into circulation in March 1964. This was just a few months after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963. The public deeply mourned the loss of their leader, and many people began saving these coins. Today, the Kennedy half dollar is one of the most well-known and collected coins in the United States.
The 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is special because it is the only regular coin in this series made of 90% silver. Many people believe that Kennedy half dollars are rare and valuable, but only a few specific versions are worth more than their face value. The Kennedy half dollar series is unique because it doesn’t have a single key date that collectors seek out.
However, the 1970-D Kennedy half dollar is considered the most significant of the series. This coin is the last one made of 40% silver and was only included in special uncirculated sets. It stands out because it’s the only regular issue coin with a notable value among the others.
Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars: Key Dates & Varieties
Here are some of the most valuable Kennedy half dollars you might come across. The values below represent typical coins without any damage.
| Issue | AU-50 | MS-63 | PR-65 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Enhanced Hair | ~ | ~ | $40 |
| 1964 Regular Proof | ~ | ~ | $17 |
| 1966 SMS No FG | ~ | $200 | ~ |
| 1966 SMS Doubled Die | ~ | $25 | ~ |
| 1970-D | $10 | $18 | ~ |
| 1972-D No FG | $1,000 | $2,500 | ~ |
| 1974-D Doubled Die | $25 | $40 | ~ |
| 1979-S Type II Proof | ~ | ~ | $20 |
| 1981-S Type II Proof | ~ | ~ | $20 |
| 1982-P No FG | $15 | $50 | ~ |
| 2014-W Gold | $1,200 | ~ | ~ |
| 2014 Non-Gold Varieties in 50th Anniversary Set | ~ | $12 | $15 |
The Metal Content of Kennedy Half Dollars
Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars: The metal used in Kennedy half dollars changed over the years. In 1964, they were made of 90% silver and 10% copper. From 1965 to 1970, the coins were made with 40% silver, with layers of 80% silver and 20% copper surrounding a 21% silver core. After 1971, Kennedy half dollars were made of 75% copper and 25% nickel.
Historical Background of Kennedy Half Dollars
The U.S. Congress approved the creation of the Kennedy half dollar on December 30, 1963, shortly after JFK’s assassination. The coin’s design was worked on by U.S. Mint Chief Engraver Gilroy Roberts, with the reverse designed by Frank Gasparro, who later became Chief Engraver.
The Kennedy half dollar was made to replace the Franklin half dollar, which was in circulation from 1948 to 1963. The design is similar to the presidential seal, and the coin measures 30.6 mm in diameter and 2.15 mm thick.
Since their release in 1964, Kennedy half dollars were initially popular in circulation. However, many people started hoarding these coins, which made them less common in everyday transactions. By the early 1980s, it was rare to see a 50¢ coin in circulation.
The production of Kennedy half dollars has also decreased over the years. After 1976, mintages fell below 100 million coins each year. By 2002, the U.S. Mint stopped producing these coins for circulation but continued to make them for collectors.
Rare Varieties & Errors
Every coin series has unique coins that are interesting to collectors. The Kennedy half dollar series is no different and includes some valuable varieties. Here are a few notable ones:
- 1964 Proof Heavily Accented Hair: This version has prominent hair details around Kennedy’s ear. It’s estimated that less than 5% of the total 1964 proof mintage, or about 197,500 coins, belong to this variety.
- 1966 SMS No FG: This coin is missing the designer’s initials “FG,” which usually appear under the eagle’s left leg. It’s a rare find due to a mistake during production.
- 1970-D: This is the last original 40% silver coin and is scarce. Only 2,150,000 were made.
- 1972-D No FG: This is among the rarest Kennedy half dollars and is highly sought after by collectors.
- 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse: This variety shows doubling in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and is one of the most significant errors in the series.
- 2014-W Gold: This gold half dollar was made to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Kennedy half dollar. Only 73,772 were produced, and its value depends on gold market prices.
Collecting Kennedy Half Dollars
Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars: The Kennedy half dollar series is not just for modern coin collectors; it also attracts people who admire John F. Kennedy and the era he represents. Although there aren’t many rare or valuable coins, the series remains popular among collectors. Many enjoy having these coins as a tribute to a significant part of American history.
VCS NEWS HOME
FAQs
What makes the 1964 Kennedy half dollar special?
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is notable because it is made of 90% silver, making it the only regular-issue coin in the series with that composition. It was also released shortly after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, which led to widespread public interest and hoarding.
How can I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is valuable?
To determine if your Kennedy half dollar is valuable, check its date, mint mark, and condition. Coins without signs of damage, such as scratches or cleaning, are typically worth more. Key dates like the 1970-D and 1972-D No FG are known to be particularly valuable.
Why are there so few Kennedy half dollars in circulation today?
Kennedy half dollars became less common in everyday transactions due to public hoarding after their release. Mintages dropped significantly after the 1970s, and the U.S. Mint stopped producing them for circulation in 2002, leading to their rarity in day-to-day use.
What are “no FG” Kennedy half dollars?
“No FG” Kennedy half dollars refer to certain coins where the initials “FG,” representing designer Frank Gasparro, are missing from the reverse side. This variety occurred due to an error during the minting process and is highly sought after by collectors.
Are Kennedy half dollars still being made?
Yes, Kennedy half dollars are still produced, but only for collectors. The U.S. Mint stopped making them for general circulation in 2002. Current issues include both business strikes and proof coins, which are available through special sets.