The value of a 1976 50 cent coin (Kennedy Half Dollar) can vary significantly depending on several key factors:
- Mint Mark:
– No Mint Mark (Philadelphia Mint): These are the most common and are generally worth face value ($0.50) if circulated. Uncirculated examples may fetch a bit more, typically in the range of $5 to $20, increasing with higher grades.
– “D” Mint Mark (Denver Mint): Similar to the Philadelphia issues, these are also quite common. Circulated coins are generally worth face value. However, uncirculated specimens, especially those in higher grades (like MS63 and above) can see their value rise, reaching up to $30 or more for exceptionally well-preserved examples. A specific 1976-D half dollar with a Grease Filled Die error has been offered for $1035.
– “S” Mint Mark (San Francisco Mint): These coins were minted in San Francisco and include both copper-nickel clad and 40% silver versions.
– Clad: Circulated clad coins are generally worth face value, but uncirculated ones can range from $1 to $3.
– 40% Silver: These are more valuable due to their silver content. [According to NGC] , a circulated 1776-1976 S Silver Kennedy half dollar is currently (August 2025) worth between $5.75 and $6.25. However, uncirculated and high-grade silver examples can be significantly more valuable, with one selling for as much as $12,500.
- Condition: Coins in pristine, uncirculated condition will always be worth more than those that have been circulated and show wear. Professional grading (e.g., by NGC or PCGS) can significantly increase a coin’s value and marketability.
- Errors: Some 1976 Kennedy half dollars have errors that increase their value significantly. These can include doubled dies, off-center strikes, or other minting errors. For example, a 1976 half dollar error value with clear doubling on “INDEPENDENCE HALL” has sold for $5,200.
To summarize:
- Most circulated 1976 Kennedy half dollars (without the “S” mint mark) are worth face value ($0.50).
- Uncirculated examples, especially in higher grades, and those with the “S” mint mark (especially the 40% silver version) are worth more, with prices ranging from a few dollars to potentially thousands of dollars for top-condition silver examples or coins with errors.
- Error coins can be very valuable.
If you believe you have a valuable 1976 50 cent coin, it is recommended to consult with a reputable coin dealer or consider professional grading for an accurate appraisal.
What is the error on the 1976 50 cent coin?
Planchet split around three quarters of the coin’s rim forming the characteristic ‘clamshell’ shape that gives this type of error it’s name.
What makes the 1976 half dollar so valuable?
From my experience, State coins can fetch slightly higher prices depending on their condition. According to the professional coin grading service PCGS a coin graded MS60 is valued at around $3. While one graded MS65.
How to tell if a 1776-1976 half dollar is silver?
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.