The value of a 1964 Kennedy silver half dollar coin depends on a few key factors, including its condition, any special varieties or errors, and the current market demand.
- Silver Content: All 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars contain 90% silver, giving them an inherent melt value that fluctuates with the price of silver. As of August 17, 2025, the melt value for a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is $13.77.
- Condition: Coins in better condition (less wear, scratches, or damage) will generally be more valuable to collectors. Coins are graded on a scale from Poor (P1) to Mint State (MS70). Uncirculated or “Mint State” coins can command significantly higher prices.
- Mint Mark: 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars were produced at the Philadelphia Mint (no mint mark) and the Denver Mint (“D” mint mark).
- Varieties and Errors: Certain varieties and mint errors can dramatically increase the value of a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar. Some notable examples include:
– Accented Hair: Some early 1964 coins have more defined hair details on President Kennedy’s bust. This design was quickly changed at the request of Jacqueline Kennedy. These can be worth significantly more than regular strikes, with uncirculated examples potentially reaching thousands of dollars.
– Doubled Die Varieties: Errors during the minting process can lead to a doubled image of elements on the coin, either on the obverse (front) or reverse (back).
– Special Mint Set (SMS) Coins: A small number of 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars have a unique satin finish and sharp strike, with their origin remaining a mystery to numismatists. These are exceedingly rare and valuable.
- Circulated Condition: According to the NGC Price Guide as of August 2025, a circulated 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar is worth between $14 and $14.75.
- Uncirculated Condition: The value for uncirculated coins increases with the grade. For example, a Philadelphia-minted 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar in MS65 (Mint State 65) condition is listed at $40, while an MS67 could be worth $950, and an MS67+ as much as $5200. Similarly, a Denver-minted 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar in MS65 is worth $42, an MS67 is $915, and an MS68 can reach $23,500.
- Accented Hair Variety: An Accented Hair proof in MS63 is valued at $55 and an MS65 at $90. However, the estimated value for proof Accented Hair coins can range from $100 to $900.
- Special Mint Set (SMS) Coins: These are the rarest and most valuable, with an MS65 potentially being worth as much as $21,500.
Note: It’s important to remember that these are estimations, and actual selling prices can vary based on market conditions and where the coin is sold. If you have a 1964 Kennedy Half Dollar that appears to be in pristine condition or exhibits unusual characteristics, it’s recommended to have it professionally authenticated and graded to determine its true value.
How do I know if my 1964 Kennedy half dollar is rare?
Although the standard coin itself can hold value, you can identify rarer versions of this coin by looking at the design. Coins with known and documented errors, like changes in the former president’s hair, can be worth even more.
Are all 1964 Kennedy half dollars 90% silver?
First, check the date: all 1964 Kennedy halves are 90% silver, while those dated 1965-1970 contain 40% silver. Those from 1971 onward are generally copper-nickel clad unless specifically produced as silver collector issues.
What is the error on the 1964 Kennedy half dollar?
Good point! Common error types include heavily accented hair and double die variants. If you have one of these coins, take steps to become educated about their value. Some 1964 Kennedy half dollar errors can be worth thousands of dollars, so it’s important to do your own research.