The value of a 1971 half dollar coin, also known as a Kennedy half dollar, varies significantly depending on its condition, any errors it might possess, and its mint mark.
- Circulated Coins: In worn or circulated condition, a 1971 half dollar is typically worth its face value, 50 cents.
- Uncirculated Coins: Coins in uncirculated condition, meaning they have not been used in transactions and show no signs of wear, can be worth more. According to the NGC Price Guide as of April 2025, an uncirculated 1971 Kennedy half dollar can be valued between $0.80 and $3,100, depending on its specific grade.
- Proof Coins: Proof coins, which are specially struck for collectors and have a shiny appearance, usually hold a higher value. A 1971-S (San Francisco Mint) proof coin might be worth $4 to $18, depending on its condition. [This 1971-S Kennedy Half Dollar is available from Littleton Coin Company].
- Error Coins: Error coins, which are those with mistakes from the minting process, can significantly increase the coin’s value, potentially making them worth thousands of dollars. Examples of errors that can affect the value of a 1971 half dollar include:
– Struck on 40% Silver Planchet: Some 1971 half dollars were accidentally struck using leftover silver planchets from previous years (which contained 40% silver). These are rare and can sell for $10,000 or more.
– Struck on Incorrect Planchet: Coins struck on different metal planchets (like nickel or quarter clad strips) are rare and can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on the error.
– Off-center Strike or Double Die Errors: Coins struck off-center or with doubled designs are also sought after by collectors and can be worth thousands. This 1971 Kennedy Half Dollar Error Coin is available from Etsy – KuriousKollectibles.
- Mint Marks: The mint mark (if present) indicates where the coin was produced. 1971 half dollars can have a “D” (Denver), “S” (San Francisco), or no mint mark (Philadelphia).
– No Mint Mark (Philadelphia): Value can range from $0.60 to $2,250.
– “D” Mint Mark (Denver): Value can range from $0.60 to $3,750.
– “S” Mint Mark (San Francisco): Value can range from $4 to $18, as these were typically proof coins.
In conclusion, while many 1971 half dollars are worth only their face value or slightly more, those in excellent condition or with rare errors can be worth a significant amount to collectors.
Is a 1971 dollar coin rare?
Despite the large number of these pieces produced (47.7 million of the 1971 Eisenhower dollar no mint mark), well-preserved examples are relatively rare and are generally worth more than their circulated counterparts.
How do I tell if my 1971 half dollar is silver?
Thanks for asking. So I have here a 1976 a 1967 which has silver in it. And another 1976. The color is also slightly different as you can see a simple way to tell is to look at the edge of the coin. The later coins.
How do I tell if my Kennedy Half Dollar is valuable?
Thanks for asking. 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.