The value of a 1971 50-cent coin (Kennedy half dollar) varies based on several factors:
- Circulated: Coins in worn condition are typically worth around their face value, which is 50 cents.
- Uncirculated: Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition can sell for significantly more. For example, a 1971-D graded Mint State 68 sold for $3100.
- NGC Price Guide: As of August 2025, the [NGC Price Guide] suggests a 1971 Kennedy half dollar in circulated condition is worth $0.60 to $0.75, while uncirculated examples can fetch up to $2050.
The mint mark can influence value:
- Philadelphia (no mint mark) coins are common; worn ones are worth about $0.60, while nicer ones can reach $35 or more, with rare sales in the thousands.
- Denver (“D”) coins are the most common; circulated ones are worth around $0.60, and mint condition coins can be $9 or more, with some rare examples selling for thousands.
- San Francisco (“S”) coins are proof coins with a shiny finish, intended for collectors and generally valued between $4 and $18, increasing with condition.
Errors can greatly increase a coin’s value:
- A rare error is a 1971-D coin struck on a 40% silver planchet, which can be worth $10,000 or more. You can check for silver by looking for a lack of copper on the edge.
- Other errors like being struck on the wrong planchet, off-center strikes, or double die errors also command higher prices.
Most circulated 1971 50-cent coins are worth close to their face value. However, uncirculated coins, San Francisco proof coins, and coins with rare errors can be worth considerably more to collectors.
How much is a 1971 50 cent coin worth?
I can help with that. Most are not rare. In used condition, they are worth about $0.60. A mint condition coin may sell for $9 or more. One sold for $13,000 in 2018, and another sold for $1,080 in 2023.
Is a 1971 half dollar pure silver?
From my experience, Starting with 1965-dated coins, the percentage of fine silver was reduced from 90% to 40% (silver clad), but even with this change the coin saw little circulation. In 1971, silver was eliminated entirely from the half dollar.
What is the misprint on a 1971 50 cent piece?
Good point! Years this minting mistake resulted in a coin with a composition. For that year significantly increasing its rarity.