The value of a 1979 Kennedy half dollar can vary depending on several factors, primarily its condition and whether it’s a regular strike or a proof coin.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Circulated 1979 Kennedy Half Dollar: These are generally worth close to their face value, or slightly more. NGC estimates that a circulated 1979 half dollar is worth between $0.60 and $0.75 as of August 2025. The Spruce Crafts indicates a circulating buying price of $1.00 and selling for face value.
- Uncirculated 1979 Kennedy Half Dollar: These are worth more than face value, and the specific value depends on the grading of the coin. For instance:
– According to NGC, a 1979 Kennedy Half Dollar in pristine, uncirculated condition (like an MS67) can sell for as much as $315.
– PCGS reports that an MS64 condition 1979 half dollar had an auction record of $4,113 in 2013, but also notes recent sales in the $20-105 range for similar grades.
– Greysheet indicates a value range of $0.80 – $275 for a 1979 50c MS coin.
- 1979-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Denver Mint): Similar to the Philadelphia Mint coins, value depends on condition.
– NGC states that circulated examples are worth $0.60 to $0.75, while pristine, uncirculated examples (like an MS67) can reach $2850.
– Greysheet provides a value range of $0.80 – $470 for a 1979-D 50c MS coin.
– Golden Eagle Coins offers a 1979-D BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) coin for $3.50-$3.54.
- 1979-S Proof Kennedy Half Dollar: This version was minted in San Francisco and has two varieties based on the mint mark:
– Type 1 (Filled S mint mark): This is the more common variety. A Proof 70 coin sold for around $320.
– Type 2 (Clear S mint mark): This is the scarcer variety, with an estimated mintage of 428,000 pieces. A Proof 70 deep cameo example sold for over $3,700. [PCGS reports] that a PCGS PR70 example sold for $3,738 in 2007.
- Condition is paramount: Uncirculated and high-grade coins are significantly more valuable than circulated ones.
- Mint mark matters: The 1979-S Proof coin has two varieties, with the clear “S” (Type 2) being more valuable.
- Proof coins generally hold higher value than their regular strike counterparts.
If you have a 1979 half dollar that appears to be in excellent condition, it’s recommended to consult with a reputable coin dealer or numismatic expert for a professional evaluation to determine its precise value. They can assess the coin’s grade and authenticity, giving you a more accurate understanding of its worth.
What is the error on 1979 half dollar?
From my experience, 1979 Kennedy Half Struck On A SBA Planchet
8.1 grams. A very rare wrong planchet combination. While Cents struck on Dime planchets are found without great difficulty, Anthony Dollars were struck for circulation only three years (1979, 1980, and 1999) and Kennedy Halves also had limited mintages those years.
How do I tell if my Kennedy half dollar is valuable?
I can help with that. 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.
How much silver is in a 1979 Kennedy half dollar?
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.