When can a 50-cent coin actually be worth thousands? The answer lies in rare Kennedy half dollars! Some of these coins can sell for six-figure amounts. Several factors influence the value of Kennedy half dollars, but the 50-cent pieces you remember from childhood might be worth a surprising amount. This is particularly true for early versions of the coin that still contained real silver.
Quick Fact
The Kennedy half dollar was first released in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, who was tragically assassinated the previous year. The idea to create a coin in his memory began just days after his death.
Top 5 Most Valuable Kennedy Half Dollars
While some Kennedy half dollars are still worth just 50 cents, others can fetch thousands in auctions. The value depends largely on rarity, silver content, and condition. Here are some of the Kennedy half dollar values that show just how much this coin can be worth.
1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is often considered one of the most valuable due to its status as the first year of minting for this iconic coin. Made with 90% silver, this coin holds a melt value, which is a significant factor in its worth. In fact, many of these early Kennedy half dollars were melted down for their silver content, making them quite rare today.
What makes some of these coins especially valuable are those from the Special Mint Set (SMS). These coins were not intended for general circulation, nor were they proof coins, but they were struck with a higher quality, producing sharp, clear details and pristine surfaces.
Being among the first to be stamped with these dies, they are incredibly rare and highly sought after. A perfect specimen of the 1964 SMS Kennedy half dollar sold for a remarkable $156,000.
1964 Kennedy Half Dollar – Regular Strike
Even the regular strike of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar is valued higher than those from other years, particularly if it’s in excellent condition. Due to its 90% silver content, many of these coins were melted down, making uncirculated examples extremely rare.
In 2024, the finest known example of this coin sold for an impressive $57,600. However, even in lesser condition, the 1964 Kennedy half dollar is still worth at least $8.64. If you have one, it’s definitely worth holding onto for your collection or selling to a collector looking for this piece.
1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1967 SMS Kennedy half dollar is another highly sought-after specimen among collectors. While this coin contained only 40% silver compared to its earlier counterparts, it still had more silver content than some of the subsequent years, adding to its value.
What truly sets these coins apart is their status as Special Mint Set (SMS) coins, which were struck with higher quality than regular strikes. Due to their rarity in uncirculated condition, they are particularly prized by collectors. In 2019, an uncirculated 1967 SMS Kennedy half dollar with no visible wear sold for an impressive $31,200.
1980-P Kennedy Half Dollar Overstruck on Susan B. Anthony Dollar
Minting errors can significantly increase the value of a coin, and the 1980-P Kennedy half dollar is a perfect example of this. By 1980, the Kennedy half dollar no longer contained silver, and coins from the Philadelphia mint that year are generally valued between 60 cents and $110, depending on their condition.
However, a rare minting error occurred when a 1980 Kennedy half dollar was struck on top of a 1979 Susan B. Anthony dollar, creating an overstrike. This unique combination makes the coin far more valuable, and in 2016, one sold for an impressive $22,325.
1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Proof coins, particularly those from proof sets, can be highly valuable, and the 1968-S Kennedy half dollar is one such example. When in pristine condition, with a clear, detailed portrait of President Kennedy, this coin can fetch thousands. In 2017, a flawless 1968-S Proof Kennedy half dollar sold for $21,600. Its exceptional quality and striking features make it a favorite among collectors.
Quick Fact
The Kennedy half dollar became an immediate hit with collectors upon its release. In 1964, when the first coins were introduced, long lines formed outside the Treasury Department in Washington, DC, stretching more than a block. The demand for the coin, especially for the 1964 editions, remains strong to this day.
How Much Silver Is in a Kennedy 50-Cent Piece?
The most valuable Kennedy 50-cent pieces often contain silver, which increases their worth beyond just face value. However, not all years of the coin contain silver. The chart below outlines the silver content for each year of production:
| Kennedy Half Dollar Minting Year | Silver Content |
|---|---|
| 1964 | 90% silver |
| 1965-1970 | 40% silver |
| 1971-present | 0% silver |
Other Factors Affecting Kennedy Half Dollar Values
While silver content is a major factor in a Kennedy half dollar’s value, there are several other considerations. While every Kennedy half dollar is worth at least 50 cents, certain characteristics can make them worth much more. Here’s what to look for:
- Condition: Uncirculated or pristine coins are worth significantly more than those that have signs of wear.
- Minting Errors: Coins with unusual features, such as odd colors, doubled letters or numbers, or coins struck on top of others, can be worth more.
- Early Dates: Half dollars minted before 1970 are typically more valuable due to their silver content, and many of these were melted down, making them rare.
- Matte-Finish Coins: A special matte-finish coin from 1998, marked as 1998-S, is especially valuable due to its limited production of only about 62,000 coins.
- SMS and Proof Coins: Special issue or proof coins, particularly those that have been well-preserved, may have higher values.
Keep an Eye Out for Valuable 50-Cent Coins
As you go through your change or examine your coin collection, be on the lookout for Kennedy half dollars that might be worth more than their face value. While many factors influence the coin’s value, early examples, in particular, can be quite valuable.
In conclusion,
Kennedy half dollars have been demonstrated to be more than just sentimental mementos; they can be exceedingly valuable. At auction, coins from specific years or with distinctive minting errors can garner thousands of dollars. Regardless of whether you are a seasoned collector or who is just beginning, monitoring these rare coins could be a profitable investment. Keep in mind that the value of a Kennedy half dollar is primarily determined by its historical significance, rarity, and condition.
FAQs
What makes some Kennedy half dollars worth thousands?
Rarity, silver content, minting errors, and condition can significantly increase the value of certain Kennedy half dollars.
Are all Kennedy half dollars valuable?
No, most Kennedy half dollars are worth only their face value, but certain years and varieties can be worth much more.
Which Kennedy half dollars are worth the most?
Coins from early years like 1964, special mint sets, or those with minting errors are often the most valuable.
How can I determine the value of my Kennedy half dollar?
Consult a professional coin appraiser or use online resources to check the year, mintmark, and condition to estimate the coin’s value.