9 Valuable Kennedy Coins to Hunt For: Rare Finds That Could Make You Rich

Kennedy half dollars, introduced in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy, have become a focal point for coin collectors. While many are common, certain editions are highly sought after due to their rarity and unique features. Here are nine valuable Kennedy half dollars to keep an eye out for:

1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar

In 1964, the U.S. Mint produced a limited number of Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy half dollars, characterized by a satin finish and sharp details.

These coins are exceedingly rare, with only about a dozen known to exist. One such coin, graded SP68, fetched $156,000 at auction.

2. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar (MS68 Grade)

The 1964-D Kennedy half dollar, minted in Denver, is notable in high grades. An MS68 graded coin is exceptionally rare and has sold for $32,900, making it a prized piece for collectors.

3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar

The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar was the last regular-issue 40% silver half dollar and was only available in mint sets, with a mintage of 2,150,000. In Mint State 65 condition, these coins are valued at approximately $35.

4. 1998-S Matte Proof Kennedy Half Dollar

Issued as part of the Kennedy Collectors Set alongside a Robert F. Kennedy commemorative silver dollar, the 1998-S matte proof has a low mintage of about 62,000, making it the lowest mintage in the series. These coins retail for around $150.

5. 1964 Proof “Accented Hair” Kennedy Half Dollar

Early proof versions of the 1964 Kennedy half dollar featured a distinctive “Accented Hair” design, which was later modified. It’s estimated that less than 5% of the 1964 proof mintage exhibits this feature, equating to approximately 197,500 pieces. These coins are valued higher than regular proofs due to their scarcity.

6. 1966 SMS No “FG” Kennedy Half Dollar

Some 1966 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy half dollars are missing the designer’s initials “FG” on the reverse, likely due to die polishing. These error coins are scarce and can command prices around $200 in high grades.

7. 1972-D No “FG” Kennedy Half Dollar

Similar to the 1966 SMS error, certain 1972-D Kennedy half dollars lack the “FG” initials. In MS63 condition, these coins can be valued at $1,000, with higher grades fetching up to $2,500.

8. 1974-D Doubled Die Obverse Kennedy Half Dollar

The 1974-D Kennedy half dollar exhibits a doubled die on the obverse, noticeable in the inscriptions. In MS65 condition, these coins are valued around $40, with higher grades commanding more.

9. 1982-P No “FG” Kennedy Half Dollar

Some 1982-P Kennedy half dollars are missing the “FG” initials on the reverse. In MS65 condition, these coins can be worth approximately $50, with higher grades fetching more.

Here’s a summary table of these valuable Kennedy half dollars:

Year	Mint Mark	Description	Approximate Value
1964	SMS	Special Mint Set	Up to $156,000
1964-D	D	MS68 Grade	$32,900
1970-D	D	Last 40% Silver Issue	$35 (MS65)
1998-S	S	Matte Proof	$150
1964	None	Proof “Accented Hair”	Varies
1966	SMS	No “FG” Error	$200 (High Grade)
1972-D	D	No “FG” Error	$1,000 (MS63)
1974-D	D	Doubled Die Obverse	$40 (MS65)
1982-P	P	No “FG” Error	$50 (MS65)

FAQs

What makes a Kennedy half dollar valuable?

Factors include rarity, minting errors, unique design features, and high-grade conditions.

How can I identify a 1964 “Accented Hair” proof?

Look for deeper hair lines above Kennedy’s ear and a missing lower left serif on the “I” in “LIBERTY.”

What does “No FG” mean on Kennedy half dollars?

It indicates the absence of the designer Frank Gasparro’s initials on the reverse, often due to die polishing errors.

Are all 1970-D Kennedy half dollars valuable?

While not all are highly valuable, those in uncirculated or high-grade conditions can command higher prices due to their limited release.

Where can I sell my valuable Kennedy half dollars?

Consider reputable coin dealers, auction houses, or online platforms specializing in numismatics.