The Kennedy half dollar, first minted in 1964, holds a special place in the hearts of coin collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
As part of a series created to honor the legacy of President John F. Kennedy, these coins are not just part of American history but also highly sought after in the numismatic world.
Over the years, certain Kennedy half dollars have become extremely valuable, with some worth significantly more than their original face value.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 valuable Kennedy half dollars, their unique features, and what makes them so highly prized among collectors.
Contents
- 1 1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars (90% Silver)
- 2 2. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollars (90% Silver)
- 3 3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollars
- 4 4. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Half Dollar
- 5 5. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
- 6 6. 1987-P Kennedy Half Dollar
- 7 7. 1998-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollars
- 8 8. 1965-1967 Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver)
- 9 9. 1992-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollars
- 10 10. 2001-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollars
- 11 FAQs
1. 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars (90% Silver)
The 1964 Kennedy half dollar is the inaugural coin in the series and is highly sought after due to its 90% silver content.
Minted just after President Kennedy’s assassination, it holds a deep historical significance. This coin is especially valuable in mint condition and can fetch hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on its grade.
- Mint Year: 1964
- Silver Content: 90%
- Value: $20 – $500 (depending on condition)
2. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollars (90% Silver)
The 1964-D Kennedy half dollar was minted at the Denver Mint, and its mint mark gives it a unique value compared to other 1964 coins. While it’s part of the same initial run, it is rarer in higher grades, making it more desirable.
- Mint Year: 1964
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Value: $40 – $500 (depending on condition)
3. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollars
The 1970-D Kennedy half dollar is a key date for collectors. Struck at the Denver Mint, this coin was not released for circulation, making it extremely rare. As a result, this non-circulated coin has gained immense popularity among numismatists.
- Mint Year: 1970
- Mint Mark: Denver (D)
- Value: $20 – $200 (depending on condition)
4. 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Half Dollar
The 1976-S Bicentennial half dollar was minted to commemorate the U.S. bicentennial. This proof version was issued with a special finish and is highly coveted. Its unique reverse design, featuring a drummer boy, adds to its collectibility.
- Mint Year: 1976
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Value: $20 – $100 (depending on condition)
5. 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar (90% Silver)
The 1964 proof Kennedy half dollar is another key piece for collectors. This version was specifically minted for collectors and features the 90% silver content, giving it both intrinsic value and collectibility. High-grade examples of this coin can fetch significant amounts at auction.
- Mint Year: 1964
- Proof Version: Yes
- Value: $50 – $500 (depending on condition)
6. 1987-P Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1987-P Kennedy half dollar is notable for being the first year since 1970 that the Philadelphia Mint produced the coin for circulation. Due to its limited mintage, it’s one of the rarer coins in the series.
- Mint Year: 1987
- Mint Mark: Philadelphia (P)
- Value: $20 – $100 (depending on condition)
7. 1998-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollars
The 1998-S proof Kennedy half dollars is a special edition produced for collectors, featuring a deep cameo finish. Its high-grade examples are highly valued, especially as the years pass and fewer remain in mint condition.
- Mint Year: 1998
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Value: $20 – $80 (depending on condition)
8. 1965-1967 Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver)
The Kennedy half dollars minted between 1965 and 1967 are unique due to their 40% silver content, a shift from the 90% silver used in 1964. These coins, especially in mint condition, have become valuable for their historical significance during a time of change in U.S. coinage.
- Mint Years: 1965-1967
- Silver Content: 40%
- Value: $20 – $100 (depending on condition)
9. 1992-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollars
The 1992-S proof Kennedy half dollar is another special edition, struck with a proof finish and featuring a high-quality appearance. These coins, produced for collectors, can fetch premium prices in excellent condition.
- Mint Year: 1992
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Value: $15 – $50 (depending on condition)
10. 2001-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollars
The 2001-S proof Kennedy half dollars is a coin valued by collectors for its distinctive proof finish and low mintage. Its value is tied to its production for the collector market, making it a highly sought-after item in modern collections.
- Mint Year: 2001
- Mint Mark: San Francisco (S)
- Value: $20 – $80 (depending on condition)
| Coin | Mint Year | Mint Mark | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars | 1964 | – | $20 – $500 (depending on condition) |
| 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollars | 1964 | D | $40 – $500 (depending on condition) |
| 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar | 1970 | D | $20 – $200 (depending on condition) |
| 1976-S Proof Bicentennial Half Dollar | 1976 | S | $20 – $100 (depending on condition) |
| 1964 Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | 1964 | – | $50 – $500 (depending on condition) |
| 1987-P Kennedy Half Dollar | 1987 | P | $20 – $100 (depending on condition) |
| 1998-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | 1998 | S | $20 – $80 (depending on condition) |
| 1965-1967 Kennedy Half Dollar (40% Silver) | 1965-1967 | – | $20 – $100 (depending on condition) |
| 1992-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | 1992 | S | $15 – $50 (depending on condition) |
| 2001-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar | 2001 | S | $20 – $80 (depending on condition) |
Whether you’re a seasoned coin collector or just starting, understanding the value of Kennedy half dollars can open the door to a potentially lucrative investment.
From the 1964 Kennedy half dollar to the special mint editions of the 1970s and 1990s, these coins are more than just collectibles—they represent pieces of American history with real financial value.
If you have one of these rare coins, or are looking to start a collection, now is the time to pay attention to the details and ensure your collection has the potential to grow in value.
FAQs
\What factors determine the value of a Kennedy half dollars?
The value of a Kennedy half dollar is primarily determined by its condition, mint year, mint mark, and any unique features such as errors or special editions. Coins in higher grades or those with silver content are worth significantly more.
How can I find valuable Kennedy half dollars?
Look for coins from specific mint years like 1964, 1970-D, or those with errors like the 1976-S No S quarter. Additionally, proof coins and coins with high silver content are valuable.
Where can I sell my Kennedy half dollars?
You can sell Kennedy half dollars through reputable coin dealers, at coin shows, or through online marketplaces like eBay. For valuable coins, it’s advised to have them professionally graded by services like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS).
