Kennedy Half Dollars have been a staple in American coinage since their introduction in 1964, commemorating President John F. Kennedy. While many of these coins are common, certain rare editions and error coins have appreciated significantly in value, with some worth over $3,000. This article delves into the top 10 most valuable Kennedy Half Dollars, providing detailed insights into each.
Top 10 Kennedy Half Dollars Worth Over $3,000
1. 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar
The 1964 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar is exceptionally rare, with only a dozen known specimens. These coins feature a unique satin finish and sharp details, distinguishing them from regular issues. In 2019, an SP68 graded coin fetched $156,000 at auction, making it the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollar to date.
2. 1964 Accented Hair Proof Kennedy Half Dollar
Early proof strikes of the 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar display accented hair above Kennedy’s ear, a feature later modified. This variety is scarce and highly sought after. A PR69 graded example realized $45,600 at auction, reflecting its desirability among collectors.
3. 1967 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar MS69 Ultra Cameo
The 1967 Special Mint Set coins are notable for their superior quality. An MS69 Ultra Cameo specimen achieved $31,200 at auction, underscoring the value of high-grade examples from this year.
4. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar MS68
The Denver Mint’s 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars are known for their quality. An MS68 graded coin from this mint sold for $22,325, highlighting the premium placed on top-grade specimens.
5. 1968-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar PR70 Deep Cameo
Proof coins from 1968, especially those with a Deep Cameo designation, are highly prized. A PR70 Deep Cameo example garnered $21,600 at auction, reflecting its pristine condition and rarity.
6. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar MS68 Deep Cameo
The 1966 Special Mint Set coins, particularly those with Deep Cameo contrast, are valuable. An MS68 Deep Cameo piece fetched $16,450, indicating strong collector interest.
7. 1966 SMS Kennedy Half Dollar SP68
Another notable 1966 SMS coin, graded SP68, achieved $15,000 at auction, showcasing the demand for high-grade Special Mint Set coins from this era.
8. 1971-D Kennedy Half Dollar Error Coin on Silver Planchet MS61
A mint error where a 1971-D Kennedy Half Dollar was struck on a 40% silver planchet intended for earlier issues is exceptionally rare. An MS61 graded example sold for $13,000, highlighting the value of such unique errors.
9. 1971-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar PR69 Ultra Cameo
The San Francisco Mint’s 1971 Proof Kennedy Half Dollars, especially in Ultra Cameo finish, are coveted. A PR69 Ultra Cameo coin realized $12,000 at auction, emphasizing the importance of condition and finish.
10. 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar MS67
The 1970-D Kennedy Half Dollar, the last of the 40% silver issues, was not released for general circulation, making it scarce. An MS67 graded coin achieved $11,000, reflecting its rarity and collector interest.
| Rank | Year | Mint Mark | Description | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1964 | None | Special Mint Set (SMS) | $156,000 |
| 2 | 1964 | None | Accented Hair Proof | $45,600 |
| 3 | 1967 | None | Special Mint Set (SMS) MS69 Ultra Cameo | $31,200 |
| 4 | 1964 | D | MS68 | $22,325 |
| 5 | 1968 | S | Proof PR70 Deep Cameo | $21,600 |
| 6 | 1966 | None | Special Mint Set (SMS) MS68 Deep Cameo | $16,450 |
| 7 | 1966 | None | Special Mint Set (SMS) SP68 | $15,000 |
| 8 | 1971 | D | Error Coin on Silver Planchet MS61 | $13,000 |
| 9 | 1971 | S | Proof PR69 Ultra Cameo | $12,000 |
| 10 | 1970 | D | MS67 | $11,000 |
Owning one of these top 10 Kennedy Half Dollars could mean possessing a coin worth over $3,000, with some reaching six-figure sums. Collectors highly value these coins for their rarity, historical significance, and unique features. If you have Kennedy Half Dollars in your collection, it may be worthwhile to have them appraised, as you could be holding a valuable piece of numismatic history.
FAQs
What makes a Kennedy Half Dollar valuable?
Factors such as rarity, mint errors, unique design features, and high-grade conditions contribute to a Kennedy Half Dollar’s value.
What is the most valuable Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1964 Special Mint Set (SMS) Kennedy Half Dollar is the most valuable, with an SP68 graded example selling for $156,000 at auction.
Are all Kennedy Half Dollars made of silver?
No, only Kennedy Half Dollars minted from 1964 to 1970 contain silver. Coins from 1964 are 90% silver, while those from 1965 to 1970 are 40% silver. Later issues are made from a copper-nickel clad composition.
How can I determine the value of my Kennedy Half Dollar?
The value depends on the coin’s year, mint mark, condition, and rarity. Having your coin professionally graded by services like PCGS or NGC can help determine its exact value.
What is a Deep Cameo or Ultra Cameo finish?
These terms refer to proof coins with a high-contrast finish, where the raised designs appear frosted, and the background is mirror-like. This finish increases a coin’s desirability and value.
