The value of a 1974 Kennedy half dollar depends on several factors, including its condition, mint mark, and whether it has any errors.
- Circulated coins: In circulated condition, a 1974 half dollar is typically worth its face value, 50 cents.
- Uncirculated coins: Uncirculated coins (Mint State or MS) will be worth more, ranging from $0.80 to $3,150, depending on the specific grade and condition. For example, a 1974-D half dollar in circulated condition is worth $0.60 to $0.75, while in pristine, uncirculated condition, it can be worth as much as $325.
- Doubled Die Obverse (DDO): This is the most sought-after error for 1974 Kennedy half dollars, [according to Coin ID Scanner] . It occurs when there’s a noticeable doubling in some areas of the coin’s design, often on the date or the “LIBERTY” inscription. A DDO error can increase the value considerably. A 1974-D with a Doubled Die Obverse can be valued between $11 and $775. In MS66 grade, a DDO can be worth $125 or more.
- Die Cracks: These are lines or breaks on the coin’s surface, [according to Coin ID Scanner] . Die cracks can increase the value to between $1.50 and $10.
- Off-Center Strikes: If the planchet (blank coin) wasn’t properly aligned, a portion of the design might be missing. Off-center strike errors can be worth between $50 and $300+.
- Clashed Dies: When the dies hit each other without a coin blank in between, a faint imprint of the design from one die can appear on the other. Clashed die errors can increase the value to between $20 and $150+.
- Broadstruck Coins: These are struck without the retaining collar, causing the coin to spread out and appear larger than normal. Broadstruck coins can be worth $20 to $100+.
- Proof Coins: These were specially made for collectors, with a mirror-like finish. Proof coins are generally more valuable, with a 1974-S proof ranging from $2.70 to $310, depending on the grade.
- No Mint Mark Error: There are also 1974 half dollars with no mint mark (meaning they were minted in Philadelphia), some of which may contain errors and could be quite valuable.
In summary
- Most circulated 1974 half dollars are worth their face value ($0.50).
- Uncirculated coins and coins with errors can be worth significantly more, with the most valuable errors being Doubled Die Obverse.
- Proof coins, particularly those with high grades and Cameo or Deep Cameo designations, can also command higher prices.
To determine the precise value of your 1974 half dollar, it’s recommended to consult coin price guides like the Red Book or PCGS Price Guide, or have it evaluated by a reputable coin dealer.
What is the error on the 1974 dollar coin?
One popular and exceedingly rare 1974 silver dollar error is often known as the “ silver planchet Ike dollar.” These coins were mistakenly struck on the silver planchet used to make San Francisco’s silver Ike dollars.
Are 1974 half dollars made of silver?
I can help with that. Starting in 1964, the Kennedy was made from 90% silver then was cut down to 40% silver. From 1971 and onward, the Kennedy Half Dollars are made from a copper-nickel clad composition.