If you’ve come across a Kennedy half-dollar and are wondering whether it contains silver, you’re not alone. Many collectors and enthusiasts are curious about the silver content of these iconic coins, especially since they were initially minted with a high silver content before changes in the coin’s composition. The good news is that determining if your Kennedy half-dollar is silver is relatively simple with a few key methods.
Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a casual collector, understanding the silver content of your coin can help you assess its value. In this guide, we’ll explore several easy ways to identify if your Kennedy half-dollar is made of silver, from examining its year of minting to performing basic tests like checking the coin’s edge or using a magnet.
The initial Kennedy half-dollar coins were composed of .900 fine silver.
This indicates that these coins contain 90% silver and 10% copper. To determine if your Kennedy half-dollar is primarily copper, you can use a magnet. If the magnet sticks to the coin, it is not made of silver. However, if the magnet does not stick, it could be silver.
Another method to check is by scratching the coin with a sharp object and observing if it leaves a silver-colored mark.
The year on a Kennedy half-dollar coin can provide valuable insight into its silver content. Coins minted before 1965 are made from 90% silver, while those produced after that date contain no silver, as they were struck with a copper-nickel composition. Therefore, checking the year of a Kennedy half-dollar is an easy way to determine if the coin contains silver.
Kennedy half-dollar coins minted in 1964 contain 90% silver. However, coins produced in 1965, 1966, and 1967 still have a significant silver content, though it gradually decreases each year until the coins were made entirely of copper by 1970. As a result, coins from earlier years are generally more valuable due to their higher silver content.
If you’re interested in melt value, it’s best to focus on coins from the earlier years of production.
The melt value of a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar, as of 2022, is just under $10, according to the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC). This value is based on the current price of silver and the coin’s 90% silver content. Keep in mind that the melt value can fluctuate depending on changes in the market price of silver.
The melt value of a 1970 Kennedy half-dollar is much lower compared to earlier years due to its lack of silver content. With a copper-nickel composition, the melt value of a 1970 coin is around $4, depending on the current market for copper and nickel.
So, if you’re wondering, “Is my Kennedy half-dollar silver?” the answer depends on the year. Coins from 1964 and 1965 are made of 90% silver and are worth significantly more, while those from 1970 have a much lower melt value due to their copper-nickel composition.
If you’re still unsure whether your Kennedy half-dollar is made of silver, examining the edge of the coin can provide a clue. Coins with copper content often have a reddish-brown stripe along the edge, while coins made of silver will typically show a clean, silver-colored stripe. This simple test can help you determine the composition of your coin.
More Kennedy Half-Dollar Q&As
The Kennedy half-dollar, a commemorative coin issued by the United States government, holds a special place in American history. One of the reasons it’s so captivating is its widespread availability. You can easily find Kennedy half-dollars worth $5 or $10 in circulation, but certain coins, especially those with a higher-quality strike, can be worth much more.
First minted in 1964, the Kennedy half-dollar was created to honor President John F. Kennedy after his tragic assassination. The obverse of the coin features a profile portrait of President Kennedy, while the reverse displays the presidential seal. The coin was produced until 2004 and continues to be in active circulation today.
Conclusion
Identifying whether your Kennedy half-dollar is made of silver doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By examining the coin’s mint year, checking its edge, or testing it with a magnet, you can easily determine its silver content. If you find a silver Kennedy half-dollar, it can be a valuable piece for your collection. Remember, earlier coins from 1964 or 1965 contain 90% silver, while later ones contain no silver. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to quickly assess the value of your Kennedy half-dollar.
FAQs
How can I tell if my Kennedy half-dollar is silver?
Check the mint year (1964 contains 90% silver). You can also examine the edge for a silver stripe or use a magnet test.
What is the silver content of a 1964 Kennedy half-dollar?
A 1964 Kennedy half-dollar contains 90% silver and 10% copper.
Are Kennedy half-dollars minted after 1964 made of silver?
No, after 1964, Kennedy half-dollars are primarily made of copper and nickel, with no silver content.
How can I use a magnet to test my Kennedy half-dollar?
If the magnet sticks to the coin, it’s not silver. If it doesn’t, the coin may contain silver.