The value of a JFK 50 cent coin (Kennedy Half Dollar) can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:
- Year of issue:
- 1964 Kennedy Half Dollars: These coins are the most valuable due to their 90% silver content. Circulated 1964 halves are generally worth between $13.75 and $14.50, but pristine, uncirculated examples can reach values of $5,200 or more.
- 1965-1970 Kennedy Half Dollars: These contain 40% silver, making them more valuable than later issues but less so than 1964 coins. Circulated coins are worth around $5.00, while uncirculated examples can be worth $7.00 or more.
- 1971-present Kennedy Half Dollars: These coins are composed of a copper-nickel alloy and contain no silver. Their value in circulated condition is typically face value or slightly more (e.g., $1.00), with uncirculated examples generally selling for a few dollars.
- Condition (Grade):
- Circulated: Coins that have been used and show wear will be less valuable.
- Uncirculated (Mint State): Coins that are in excellent condition with no signs of wear will be more valuable.
- Proof: Coins struck specifically for collectors with a high-quality finish and often exhibiting a mirror-like surface.
- Mintmark:
- The letter on the coin (or absence thereof) indicates where it was minted.
- Philadelphia (no mintmark), Denver (“D”), San Francisco (“S”), and West Point (“W”) have produced Kennedy Half Dollars.
- Errors and Varieties:
- Doubled dies, off-center strikes, or missing features can dramatically increase a coin’s value.
- For example, a 1982 No FG Kennedy half dollar (missing the designer’s initials) can be worth $20-$50 in circulated condition or $1,000+ in high grades.
- The 1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy half dollar is a rare and mysterious issue with only 12 known examples. An SP68 example sold for $156,000.
Tips for determining value:
- Check the year and mintmark on your coin.
- Examine the coin’s condition closely, looking for wear and any errors or unusual features.
- Consult a reputable coin value guide or app like [Coin ID Scanner] to compare your coin to recent sales records.
Important Note: While some Kennedy Half Dollars are highly valuable, most circulated coins are worth close to their face value.
How do I know if my 1964 Kennedy half dollar is rare?
1964 SMS (Special Mint Set) Kennedy Half Dollar: The rarest variation is the SMS version, known for its sharp strike, satin finish, and careful handling during production. This version does not use the Accented Hair dies but an early version of the reverse die.